Two people were rescued by the RNLI after the engine of their yacht failed in Co Down.
On Mother's Day, March 30, at around 12.57pm Bangor RNLI were called to assist those on a yacht in distress. Shortly afterwards, at approximately 1.05pm Bangor lifeboat crew launched their Atlantic 85 class lifeboat Ruby Robinson.
It followed a request from Belfast Coastguard to assess a situation where a boat with two people onboard had encountered engine problems just east of Bangor harbour.
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At the time, the weather was dry and slightly overcast, with quite a choppy sea state. The crew made their way to the scene and located the casualty vessel which was at anchor close to the rocks and shoreline. They then spoke to the people onboard and found them to be safe and well and both wearing lifejackets.
The crew assessed the situation and made a decision to tow the vessel to the nearest safe harbour at Bangor Marina as the casualty vessel had no means of propulsion. Once the two onboard and their vessel had been taken to Bangor Marina, Ruby Robinson was refuelled, washed down and made ready for service.
Speaking following the call out, Bangor RNLI Helm John Bell said: "The boat owner did exactly the correct thing by dropping his anchor as soon as he realised he was in difficulty, and calling for help, which we were only too happy to do.
"We would urge all boat owners to carry out regular maintenance checks on our vessel. Carry spare fuel if possible and ensure that you have a means for calling for assistance if you find yourself in trouble. If you see someone in trouble on the water or are in difficulties yourself do not hesitate to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."
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