Search for missing fisherman off Colwyn Bay is suspended
22:30 Update:
A search and rescue operation to find a 24ft fishing vessel that was reported overdue from Colwyn Bay, Wales has been suspended for the night.
The UK Coastguard received a call this morning from a concerned relative reporting that the fishing vessel had not returned last night (14th June) as expected.
A major search, involving the Coastguard search and rescue helicopter based at Caernarfon, RNLI lifeboats from Rhyl and Llandudno, and Coastguard rescue teams also from Rhyl and Llandudno was suspended at 22.30 tonight.
UK Coastguard officer Andy Carroll said, “The decision to suspend the search hasn’t been an easy one to make. This man is still missing and we appreciate the concern and worry this is causing his family and friends.
“We are fearful that the fisherman entered the water last night and after an extensive search we have found a life raft that was drifting off Llanddulas which we have matched to the missing vessel.”
Earlier story:
An extensive search has been under way since approx 10am today for a fisherman who had been out fishing in Colwyn Bay since last night in his 24-metre fishing boat.
A concerned relative called the Coastguard Operations Centre this morning to report that the vessel had not returned as expected.
On receiving information about a life raft drifting off Llanddulas, they managed to match this life raft to the missing fishing vessel and adjusted the search area accordingly.The Coastguard also sent Rhyl & Llandudno Coastguard Rescue Team to search the coast and investigate debris on the shoreline.
UK Coastguard Controller Graham Clark said:
“We are fearful that this fisherman may have entered the water overnight. Nevertheless the search is ongoing.”
