Stricken paddle boarders rescued at Ballyhornan

Stricken paddle boarders rescued at Ballyhornan

1 January 2025

PORTAFERRY RNLI volunteers went to the assistance of paddle boarders, who got into difficulty at Ballyhornan before Christmas.  

The lifeboat was called out on Saturday, December 21, after Belfast Coastguard received a call from three paddle boarders who found themselves in difficulty close to Guns Island.  

Helm Scott Blackwood, with volunteer lifeboat crew members Paul Mageean, Ros Watret and Blair Baillie, launched the Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat into a strong, westerly breeze and immediately made their way through Strangford Narrows and towards the Irish sea. 

An update informed the crew that one casualty had been carried ashore and that the remaining paddle boarders were being taken in the direction of St Patrick’s Rock, just outside Strangford Lough.

When the lifeboat arrived on scene weather conditions had deteriorated and there was a near gale blowing. The lifeboat began a search of the area and soon after spotted both casualties.  

Both paddle boarders were brought onboard the lifeboat and medical assessments were carried out on the journey back to Strangford pontoon where they were handed over to the waiting Coastguard team.  

Following the incident, helm Scott Blackwood said: “When these paddle boarders went into the water, they were in a bay sheltered from the offshore 

westerly wind, but we would remind everyone to check the weather before committing to the water.  

“We found the casualties holding on to each other, and still on their boards. This was the correct thing to do. They also had a means to call for help when they realised the strength of the offshore wind.”  

“We were tasked today along with two Coastguard teams and Newcastle and Donaghadee all-weather lifeboats to pull two casualties onto the lifeboat. Those people, and their shore crews, all answered a call for help today and will remain prepared to help those in danger over the coming festive period.”

Mr Blackwood urged everyone to check weather and tide times if they plan to spend time close to, or on the water. 

“If venturing out onto the water, always wear a lifejacket or suitable personal flotation device for your activity and always carry a means of calling for help. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard,” he added.