A LIFEBOAT CREW in West Cork raced to the scene of a boat fire off the Irish coast this afternoon.

The Castletownbere RNLI lifeboat successfully rescued the crew of the boat who were trapped at sea in rolling waves and high wind after the engine of their craft caught fire. 

The rescue craft was launched this afternoon to a Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB) that was in trouble off of Ardnakinna Lighthouse in West Cork.

The ‘Annette Hutton’ was called into action shortly before 2pm.

Her crew set out minutes later under the command of Deputy Coxswain Sean Bawn O’Sullivan with mechanic Donagh Murphy and Coxswain Joe O’Sullivan, crew Joe Cronin, Seamus Harrington, Dave O’Donovan and William O’Driscoll.

The crew of the Lifeboat after their successful rescue mission. Castletownbere RNLI Castletownbere RNLI

A spokesman said that the lifeboat arrived 12 minutes after the call for help. 

“Conditions were blustery with a Force 6/7 westerly wind and a three-metre swell. At this stage the boat skipper had quenched the engine and all people on board were calm.

“The lifeboat immediately took the RHIB, with six persons on board, in tow, Once the lifeboat was within the calmer waters of Berehaven Harbour, the casualties were taken aboard the lifeboat and the rib towed alongside.

“All persons were safe and well. The lifeboat returned to Castletownbere and the rib was berthed and casualties went ashore,” he said. 

The owner of the boat, Paul O’Shea, spoke of his gratitude after the successful rescue. 

“From the time I called Coast Guard for help, Castletownbere lifeboat came into view within 11 minutes.

“I am very grateful to the crew for their speedy response and the professional manner in which they provided assistance,” he said.