Stranraer RNLI volunteers were called into action twice on Saturday after a vessel ran aground south of Loch Ryan, with the incident later taking a dramatic turn when one of the occupants suffered a medical emergency.
The first call came at around 10:30am, when UK Coastguard requested the launch of Stranraer’s Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) following reports of a vessel in difficulty.
The volunteer crew quickly located the vessel, which had become grounded while the tide was still low. After carrying out a full assessment, they confirmed that everyone on board was safe and well. Although attempts were made to free the vessel, the low tide meant it was not possible, and the lifeboat was stood down until conditions improved.
The ILB relaunched at approximately 7:45pm, ahead of the evening’s high tide, to return to the casualty vessel.
However, on arrival, the situation had changed significantly. Following a further assessment, the crew discovered that the male occupant was suffering a medical emergency.
RNLI volunteers immediately provided casualty care before safely transferring the man ashore to Stranraer Harbour, where he was handed into the care of Stranraer Coastguard and the Scottish Ambulance Service for further treatment.
The man’s dog was also safely brought ashore by the lifeboat crew and reunited with its owner at Stranraer Marina.
Once the casualty had been safely evacuated, the crew returned to the vessel, which had floated free on the rising tide. After carrying out the necessary towing assessments, the vessel was placed under tow and safely escorted into Stranraer Marina.
Following the incident, Stranraer RNLI said they wished the gentleman involved a full and speedy recovery.
After returning to station, the lifeboat was recovered, refuelled and made ready for its next emergency call.
The incident highlights the wide range of emergencies RNLI volunteers can face, from assisting stranded vessels to providing lifesaving medical care at sea.