Search Ongoing for Missing Crew After Boat Distress Call in English Channel

The search for a boat in distress in the English Channel is continuing after two people remain missing, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) confirmed on Sunday morning. HM Coastguard in Falmouth reported that three of the five crew members aboard the vessel have been accounted for. The incident occurred south-west of Eddystone Lighthouse off Plymouth on Saturday night.

Rescue efforts began shortly after 18:00 BST on Saturday, involving a coastguard rescue helicopter, a fixed-wing plane, and two RNLI lifeboats. The operation was later joined by a large number of civilian vessels assisting in the intensive search. HM Coastguard confirmed that the search was maintained throughout the night and continued into Sunday with multiple assets deployed.

Lifeboat crews from Newlyn and Salcombe have now taken over the search from the Plymouth and Falmouth RNLI crews, who worked through the night. The MCA did not provide further details about the vessel or the nature of the emergency.

HM Coastguard in Falmouth urged the public to stay clear of the search area to avoid hindering rescue efforts. They also expressed gratitude to the civilian vessels and lifeboat crews for their assistance during the challenging operation.

The MCA is coordinating the search and rescue operation with support from various agencies, including the RNLI and local authorities. The situation remains ongoing, and further updates are expected as the search continues.

#ChannelSearch #MissingCrew #HMCoastguard #RNLI #EddystoneLighthouse #MaritimeRescue #Plymouth #Falmouth