Youghal RNLI and helicopter Rescue 117 come to aid of kayaker in difficulty

Crew members from Youghal RNLI, along with helicopter Rescue 117 and Youghal Coast Guard yesterday came to the aid of a kayaker who got into difficulty and ended up in the water near Capel Island.

The rescue was the first call out as lifeboat helm for Youghal RNLI volunteer Jack Nolan.

Mr Nolan, alongside crew members Liam Keogh, Alan Revins and Jason Innes, made their way to the scene following a request to launch at 7.40pm.

Weather conditions were described as favourable with a gentle south westerly breeze and falling tide.

Shortly after being requested, the crew arrived at the location and found the casualty who had been in the water for some time after falling from their kayak and being unable to climb back in.

The lifeboat crew took the casualty and the kayak onboard and started to make their way to Ring Strand near Knockadoon.

Upon arrival and concerned for the casualty's condition, the crew requested the help of the Irish Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 117 from Waterford and Youghal Coast Guard.

Once ashore, the lifeboat crew handed the casualty into the care of Youghal Coast Guard where they received medical assistance.

Speaking after the call out, Mark Nolan, Youghal RNLI launch authority, said:

“We want to wish the casualty a speed recovery following their ordeal and commend the person ashore who raised the alarm by dialling 112 on seeing someone in trouble as time is always of the essence in situations like these.

“This routine training exercise turned into a call out for us but we are prepared for that too.

“I would like to commend all involved for their work in bring this casualty onboard the lifeboat ashore, providing casualty care and then handing them into the care of our colleagues in the Coast Guard.”