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Overboard
Up to 97 people rescued as stormy weather hits Down sailing competition
The Dublin Coast Guard rescue helicopter was tasked to assist in the operation.
Updated 10.51 pm
A MAJOR RESCUE operation at a sailing competition in Strangford Lough, county Down has finished with all 97 people rescued.
About six people are suffering with mild hypothermia but the remainder of those who were recovered from the water are now safe and well.
The Irish Coast Guard said its Dublin team were deployed but are now standing down and on the way back.
UTV reports that several boats were overturned and there are also reports that it was caused by a freak wave.
A Northern Ireland Ambulance Service spokesperson told TheJournal.ie that they had a number of vehicles on scene but no serious injuries reported. However six people are currently being treated for hypothermia.
The Irish Coast Guard was called to assist Belfast Coast Guard and the rescue helicopter from Dublin was also deployed to assist. A coast guard spokesperson said a helicopter from Anglsea in Wales had also been tasked and local lifeboats were also on scene.
The Sligo helicopter was on standby but not required.
First published 3.04 pm
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