Channel Rescue: Three Saved, Two Missing After Fishing Boat Sinks

HM Coastguard Confirms Three Rescued

HM Coastguard in Falmouth has confirmed that three people have been rescued from a French fishing vessel that sank in the English Channel. The three survivors were taken to hospital and are now on their way back to France.

Intensive Search and Rescue Operation

The search for the remaining two crew members began on Saturday evening after the trawler, Maranello, made a distress call at 18:00 BST. A coastguard rescue helicopter, fixed-wing plane, and RNLI lifeboats were dispatched to an area southwest of Eddystone Lighthouse, off the coast of Devon.

The multi-agency operation continued on Sunday, with RNLI lifeboat crews from Falmouth, Newlyn, Plymouth, and Salcombe all involved. A coastguard aircraft, equipped with advanced technology, also joined the search, and mayday relay broadcasts were sent out to nearby vessels.

French Authorities Confirm Fishing Gear Issue

The French naval prefecture for the Atlantic confirmed that the Maranello contacted another trawler, the Stradale, before sinking. The crew reported a problem with their fishing gear, and the Stradale managed to rescue three of the five crew members.

One survivor was evacuated by helicopter to Truro, Cornwall, while the other two were taken to Plymouth for medical treatment.

Community Support and Ongoing Search

The UK coastguard spokesperson praised the efforts of civilian vessels that assisted in the search, demonstrating the power of community support in times of need.

While the search has been suspended pending further information, the coastguard remains vigilant, ready to resume operations at a moment’s notice. The story of the Maranello and its crew serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who make their living on the sea and the importance of swift and coordinated rescue efforts.