P&O Ferry passenger falls overboard as pressing search launched near UK
A major search and rescue operation is currently underway in the sea close to the UK following reports of a man overboard from a P&O Ferry travelling between Larne and Stranraer.
HM Coastguard have launched a search and rescue operation following a man falling overboard into the Irish sea from P&O’s European Highlander at around 1.21pm on Thursday (February 12).
Larne and Portmuck Coastguard Rescue Teams and RNLI Lifeboats from Larne and Donaghadee have also been sent along with the Coastguard rescue helicopter, reports Belfast Live.
A Coastguard spokesperson said: “At 1.21pm this afternoon, HM Coastguard responded to reports of a man overboard from a passenger vessel travelling between Larne and Stranraer.
“Larne and Portmuck Coastguard Rescue Teams and RNLI Lifeboats from Larne and Donaghadee have been sent, as well as an HM Coastguard rescue helicopter. The incident is ongoing.”
A P&O Ferries spokesperson said: “We can confirm that an incident has occurred onboard the European Highlander while the vessel was sailing to Larne.
“We are working closely with the relevant authorities, who are actively responding. Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of all involved, and we will provide further updates as more information becomes available.”
(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)
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