At 14:09 Sunday 13th June Girvan lifeboat was requested for immediate launch to reports of a capsized small vessel off Ballantrae Harbour with reported persons in the water.
Girvan lifeboat and our volunteer crew were soon making best speed South, with Ballantrae and Girvan Coastguard Rescue Teams heading to the scene, Coastguard Rescue helicopter R199 was also tasked. P&O's European Causeway ferry also diverted and stood by off Ballantrae Harbour ready to render assistance. Girvan Lifeboat arrived at the location along with Rescue 199 just moments after a local fishing vessel had recovered the casualties and who were now with the Coastguard Teams and being checked over, with concerns for the health of the casualties, one of whom appeared to to showing symptoms of being hypothermic, preparations were being made for a landing of the helicopter, as the helicopter began its decent, the ambulance arrived and the casualties were swiftly placed in the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service Paramedics, with this and no further danger to life, both Girvan Lifeboat and Rescue 199 were stood down. Girvan Lifeboat and her volunteer crew returned to Girvan where the lifeboat was made ready for the next service call. In this instance there happened to be a fishing boat really close by who were able to assist before any assets arrived on scene, well done to the crew for their swift action in assisting the casualties and local Coastguard Teams. If you see someone in difficulty at sea or on the coast, don't wait dial 999 and ask for the coastguard. You too can help save lives at sea by helping us, you can donate directly to Girvan Lifeboat here. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/girvan-rnli-fundraising-branch-2021