Two adults and child rescued after inflatable boat in difficulty at Magheramorne

Larne RNLI volunteers responded to the call-out. RNLI/Steven Lee

The volunteer crew responded to a Belfast Coastguard request at 11.05am.

Upon locating the RIB, the volunteer crew checked to make sure that everyone was alright before establishing a tow line with the boat and returning to Ballylumford Harbour where a team from Portmuck Coastguard was waiting.

In-shore lifeboat helm Chris Dorman said: “The casualties did the right thing. They were trying out this piece of equipment and realised that something wasn’t quite right with it, so they contacted the coastguard for assistance.

“Everyone onboard was wearing a life jacket and they had means to contact the shore in case of emergency.”

He added: “If you see anyone in difficulties at sea, then dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”

Meanwhile, Portmuck Coastguard responded to a report of a paddle boarder in difficulty near Portmuck Island on Sunday morning.

The coastguard added: “Thankfully this turned out to be false alarm with good intent as the person was okay. If you think you see someone in distress please don’t hesitate to call the coastguard, we would rather be called out and stood down.”

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