Five sailors rescued by Howth lifeboat

The crew of Howth ILB (Inshore Lifeboat) rescued five men who had become stranded on Ireland's Eye this afternoon.

The operation was launched at 3:30pm today, returning to safety at Howth at 5:30pm.

The stricken boat had been swept away by the severe weather conditions. The force eight easterly wind had produced steep waves, up to three metres in height, which made the rescue difficult.

The five men were visiting two friends living on the island for the month of December in aid of charity.

The alarm was raised when the un-manned boat was seen from land floating towards the shore at Portmarnock, where the boat was eventually recovered by the Howth Lifeboat Crew.