Rescue drama as motor boat runs aground
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A JOINT rescue effort swung into action on Saturday to come to the aid of a stricken motor boat off the coast of Burghead.
The alarm was raised at around 7pm when the Coastguard received a VHF radio call from a 30ft motor cruiser with three people on board saying that they had lost engine power and were heading to the shore in bad weather off Burghead.
The crew subsequently abandoned ship and sought safety in their life-raft, the motor boat subsequently running aground.
Burghead Coastguard Rescue Team, Moray Independent Rescue Boat, Buckie RNLI lifeboat, a Offshore Industry Rescue Bond helicopter from Aberdeen and Scottish Ambulance Service were all sent.
The Coastguard Rescue Team carried out a water rescue and all three people were brought safely to shore where they checked over by the Ambulance Service.
Jonathan Mustard, HM Coastguard said: "The people were extremely lucky, fortunately they were all wearing lifejackets and had suitable life saving equipment with means of raising the alarm.
"They were able to abandon their vessel for the life-raft. Coastguard Rescue Officers entered the water, in rough conditions and were able to bring everyone safely to shore."
A spokesman for Buckie RNLI added: "The William Blannin and her volunteer crew were launched at 7.20pm on Saturday, August 10 to assist in the multi-agency effort to rescue the crew of a motor boat in difficulty off Burghead.
"Sadly the conditions were too dangerous to try and salvage the vessel, no attempt being made as there was no risk to life."
