Lifeboat crew were called to aid two people whose speedboat developed fuel issues in the Castle Archdale area last night.

This was the second launch that the Enniskillen Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) was requested to make by the Belfast Coastguard yesterday, Sunday, June 30.

A spokesman for the RNLI stated: "At 4.36pm the Charity’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat John and Jean Lewis were requested to launch to reports of a drifting cruiser in the area of Castle Archdale. Weather at the time was overcast with light showers with a westerly wind. The volunteer crew did an extensive search of the area, spoke with boat users and companies in the area but nothing untoward was found. The crew were stood down after an hour and instructed they could return to station."

He continued: "Later last night Belfast Coastguard requested the lifeboat to launch at 10.04pm again to the Castle Archdale area. The inshore lifeboat and Rescue Watercraft travelled five miles north to the area. The 15ft speedboat developed fuel issues and with the reasonable swell and weather conditions it washed up on the shore. The two passengers managed to get safely to shore. The volunteer crew got the boat refloated and brought it to safety in Castle Archdale Marina."

Speaking following the call outs, Enniskillen RNLI Helm Rory Hoy said: "We would like to commend the person who raised the alarm in the first call out, although nothing was found, we would always much rather launch and find that all is well than not launch at all. If you think you see someone in difficulty, call 999 and ask for Coastguard. With challenging conditions later last night, the gentleman remained calm with his son and called for help when they got into difficulty before being able to make their way to the marina."

Mr. Hoy continued: "As we enter the summer months, we would remind all users of Lough Erne to enjoy themselves but also to respect the water. Always wear a lifejacket, always carry a

means of communication and always let someone ashore know where you are going and when you are due back."