ENNISKILLEN RNLI came to the aid of two adults and two children after a cruiser they were onboard ran aground north of Tully Bay in Co. Fermanagh during harsh weather yesterday (Sunday, June 20).

A spokesman for Enniskillen RNLI said: "The volunteer crew were requested to launch the station’s inshore lifeboat, John and Jean Lewis, and rescue water craft at 6pm by Belfast Coastguard to go to the aid of the vessel that had run aground on the shore near Duff Point.

"The strong Force 4 easterly wind and rough water had caused difficulties for the vessel, whose crew quickly called for help when they found themselves against the shore

“Another vessel that arrived on scene first attempted to help, but also got into difficulties due to the weather."

On arrival, the crew observed that the four people on board the first vessel, including two adults and two children, had made it to a nearby shore safely, having abandoned the vessel.

The RNLI spokesman added: "They were safe and well but cold and wet. The crew prioritised getting the casualties safe and warm with blankets, before attempting to refloat the stranded vessels.

"The volunteer crew then used the salvage pump to refloat one of the vessels, while the other was secured safely on the shore."

Speaking following the call-out, Enniskillen RNLI Helm Stephen Ingram said: "The casualties did the right thing in calling 999 when they ran into trouble.

“We advise people to carefully check their navigation and the weather conditions before setting out.

“It is also important to bring a means of calling for help should you run into trouble."