Boys rescued after canoe capsizes

Donaghadee lifeboat went to the scene

Two boys have been rescued after getting into difficulties in a canoe off the County Down coast.

A member of the public called 999 after seeing the canoe capsize in the water off Millisle.

Bangor Coastguard Rescue team and the Donaghadee lifeboat went to the scene and rescued one boy and a man who had swam out to the canoe.

The other boy was able to swim ashore at Ballyferris Point. An RAF and the PSNI's helicopters were scrambled.

A fishing vessel also responded to a broadcast put out by Belfast Coastguard for any assistance in the area.

Alan Pritchard of the Belfast Maritime Co-ordination Centre said the lifeboat was quickly on the scene.

"Both youngsters were returned to Donaghadee harbour... and were then transferred to Ulster Hospital by ambulance.

"With the start of the summer holidays we would like to ask the public visiting the coastline to ensure they have the correct safety equipment, such as life jackets; and to always contact the Coastguard on '999' if they see anyone in trouble on the water."