Red Bay RNLI lifeboats was launched on Sunday, July 12, to rescue a kayaker who got into difficulty north of Cushendun.

The lone kayaker set off on his outing at 6.30pm but got into difficulty some hours later off Cushendun, when his kayak became swamped by sea swells.

Cold and exhausted, he was unable to get back to shore safely but managed to raise the alarm with Belfast Coastguard at approximately 11.30pm. The Coastguard then requested both Red Bay RNLI lifeboats to launch.

On arrival the lifeboat crew ascertained that the kayaker needed urgent assistance, and they transferred him from his swamped kayak to one of the lifeboats.

Volunteer lifeboat crew at Red Bay RNLI launched on Sunday 12 July to rescue a lone kayaker who got into difficulty one and a half miles north of Cushendun.

placeholder image — Volunteer lifeboat crew at Red Bay RNLI launched on Sunday 12 July to rescue a lone kayaker who got into difficulty one and a half miles north of Cushendun.

Once he was safely onboard, both lifeboats returned to Cushendall where they were met by Ballycastle Coastguard. The kayaker was provided with casualty care, following which, he was able to depart after sufficiently recovering.

Red Bay RNLI Coxswain Liam O’Brien said: “This was a great outcome as the kayaker was in serious trouble after becoming overwhelmed by the sea state and pure exhaustion.

"Even during the warmest weather, conditions offshore can take a bad turn very quicky and the water is extremely cold. Thankfully the kayaker managed to raise the alarm, and we were able to reach him in time.

"Always have a means of calling for help and if you end up in the water unexpectedly, float with your head tilted back and your ears submerged with your arms and legs extended.

"This will calm your breathing and give you time to raise the alarm and call for help. To raise the alarm dial 112 or 999 for the Coastguard.”