Russian ship in trouble off Down coast

A Russian cargo ship was at the centre of a rescue operation today off the Co Down coast.

The 1,500-ton vessel with a six-man crew developed engine trouble in the Irish Sea.

The boat, which was carrying steel, was bound for Coleraine, Co Derry.

Lifeboats from Larne and Donaghadee were launched to monitor the passage of the boat as it drifted off the Co Down coastline in stormy conditions.

The Irish Lights vessel, The Granuaille was also despatched and was expected to attempt to tow the vessel to safety at around 9am.

Lawrence Cumming of the Belfast Coastguard said: "At this stage the cargo ship is about 10 miles south east of the Copeland Islands.

"The weather conditions are poor. There is a force eight south-easterly wind, so it is quite rough.

"However, we are not unduly concerned. We would be hopeful that we can get a line to the boat, tow it into Belfast Lough and then Belfast Harbour where it will be met by other tugboats.

"It will be a long operation. It could take four to five hours before it reaches shore in Belfast."