‘Significant increase’ in east Antrim coastal emergencies as lockdown eases

In a statement issued on social media today (Tuesday), Portmuck Coastguard said “now that lockdown is easing we have had a significant increase” in call-outs. In recent weeks, the statement continued, the service has responded to the following: June 8 (01.05hrs), person in danger on cliff at Blackhead; June 13 (22.11hrs), broken down boat off Whitehead, towed into Carrick Marina by Bangor Lifeboat; June 20 (14.12hrs), report of a paraglider in trouble near Ballygally, area searched with nothing found; June 22 (22.09hrs), person in the water at Carrickfergus Harbour. The Islandmagee-based search and rescue team added: “Thankfully on these occasions all persons involved are safe and well. “If you are going to the beach or afloat please take care, off shore winds will blow out inflatables and kayaks. “If you see anyone in difficulties, Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.” -- Message from the Editor: Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you. In order for us to continue to provide high quality and trusted local news on this free-to-read site, I am asking you to also please purchase a copy of our newspaper whenever you are able to do so. Our journalists are highly trained and our content is independently regulated by IPSO to some of the most rigorous standards in the world. But being your eyes and ears comes at a price. So we need your support more than ever to buy our newspapers during this crisis. With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our local valued advertisers - and consequently the advertising that we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you helping us to provide you with news and information by buying a copy of our newspaper when you can safely. You can also enjoy unlimited access to the best news from across Northern Ireland and the UK by subscribing to newsletter.co.uk With a digital subscription, you can read more than five articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Visit https://www.newsletter.co.uk/subscriptions now to sign up. Thank you.