RNLI volunteers rescue man found unconscious at shore

The crew launched the inshore lifeboat, the Hannahbella Ferguson, following a request by Belfast Coastguard at 10.35pm to go to the assistance of a person spotted lying face down in the sea approximately 150-200 metres from the shore in Larne Lough.

Weather conditions at the time were good with a flat calm sea but light was fading.

The lifeboat, helmed by Willie Evans and with crew members Dave Somerville and Pamela Dorman onboard, arrived on scene at 10.41pm where they pulled the casualty on to the lifeboat.

With the man not breathing, two crew members proceeded to perform CPR and resuscitated the casualty. The helm brought the lifeboat into a small slipway along the promenade which was accessible due to a high tide.

The casualty was handed over to the waiting paramedics and ambulance.

Willie Evans praised the crew who he said had worked together to resuscitate the casualty and bring him to shore.

Alliance Larne Councillor Gerardine Mulvenna also paid tribute to the “courage and bravery” of this lifeboat crew. Their actions have undoubtedly saved the life of this man.

“The RNLI carry out what can sometimes be dangerous and difficult rescues, we all owe them a debt of gratitude.” for making the sea a safer place.”