Falmouth Coastguard Co-ordinate Search and Rescue 150 Miles West of the Scilly Isles

A rescue operation occurred on 29 January 2007, 150 miles west of the Scilly Isles after Falmouth Coastguard received an alert from a 406 MHz Electronic Positioning Radio Beacon (EPIRB) this morning.

Falmouth Coastguard requested an Irish marine patrol aircraft as well as two rescue helicopters from the UK to the scene, and diverted a number of fishing and merchant vessels to the scene.

 

The Irish marine patrol CASA aircraft sent to the scene.

 

The Ultra Large Crude Carrier (ULCC) Front Commander was guided to 2 life-rafts by the Irish marine patrol aircraft, and has rescued all seven people. The crew was found to be from the fishing vessel Discovery, which sank earlier that morning.

One of the rescue helicopters air-lifted the seven rescued crew from the Front Commander; they were then transferred back to the UK. The seven crew members are reported to be well, no injuries were sustained however one crewman was suffering slightly due to the cold.

Steve Huxley, Search and Rescue Communications Manager, Falmouth Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre said:

“Again the 406 MHz Electronic Positioning Radio Beacon (EPIRB) led to a good rescue. Today’s rescue operation relied on good co-operation from our colleagues in Ireland, Spain and at Kinloss. We are delighted with the outcome of this search and rescue operation.”

 

The crew of The Discovery, just before being picked up.