Islay Lifeboat called out

Clyde Coastguard received an emergency call on Monday 25 June at 12.39pm from the Ardpartrick Coastguard Deputy Station Officers wife who had just witnessed a speedboat incident on Loch Sween, according to BBC News. Loch Sween is located just north of West Loch Tarbert, and close to the isle of Danna.

Three men on board a speedboat were thrown into the water when the boat took on water over the bow, lost stability and sank. Only one of the men was wearing a buoyancy aid. Clyde Coastguard requested the Coastguard Rescue Team from Crinan to the Loch, along with the Islay RNLI all weather lifeboat and a RN Rescue Helicopter. Meanwhile the Ardpartrick Coastguard Deputy Station Officer, Sandy Campbell, took to the Loch in his boat and managed to reach the three casualties and recover them from the water.

Clyde Coastguard Watch Manager Bill Spiers says: It was lucky for these men that the incident was witnessed and help was instantly at hand. We would like to remind everyone to use the water responsibly and safely and to always wear a suitable type of buoyancy aid.