First shout for RNLI volunteer crew member

Larne RNLI came to the aid of two people onboard a broken-down Rib this afternoon (11 April), and for one of the volunteer crew, it was a first shout.

When her pager went off this afternoon, volunteer crew member Kathryn Brennan, a software engineer from Larne was called into action for her first shout.

Kathryn, who recently joined as a crew member for the Larne RNLI lifeboat station said:

“I've always wanted to do more for my local community, and saw this as a perfect opportunity to do so. With this being my first shout, you do get that initial adrenaline rush but then your training kicks in. It's also reassuring to know that you've got a good group of crew members there to guide you, so I felt prepared for today.” 

The volunteer crew were requested to launch their All-Weather Lifeboat Dr John McSparran at 1:18pm at the request of HM Coastguard after a member of the crew onboard the Rib raised the alarm.

Coxswain Jack Healy who was on his first shout as Coxswain, Mechanic Derek Rea and crew members Barry Kirkpatrick, Jordan McIlhinney, Samantha Agnew and Catherine Lee made their way to the casualties' last reported location. Weather conditions at the time were described as good and sunny with a slight breeze. 

The casualties were located just north of Larne close to the Drumnagreagh Road. 

It was established that both crew members were safe and well and that the reason for the breakdown was engine failure.

After checking that all on board were safe and following an assessment at the scene by the Coxswain, it was established that the necessary and safest course of action was that a tow line be established, and the boat taken to the safety of Tweeds Port in Larne. 

With the assistance of the inshore D class lifeboat Terry helmed by Pamela Leitch, with Kathryn Brennan, Ross Stewart and Phil Ford-Hutchinson on board the Rib was safely returned to Tweeds Port. 

Speaking following the call out, Larne RNLI Coxswain, Jack Healy said:

“The casualties were wearing the correct safety equipment and had the means to contact the Coastguard. They did the right thing when they realised that they had broken down.”

“At this time of year, people are starting to think about getting their boats back in the water for summer and now is a good time to prepare and plan ahead. We would encourage everyone to check their vessels and ensure engines are well maintained.

“When going out, always carry adequate tools and spares and ensure you have enough fuel for your journey. If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”