Fisherman injured in fall at sea

A 73-year old fisherman was today treated for serious head injuries after he fell while working at sea, the RNLI said.

The man and three of his colleagues were around five miles east/south east of Rockabill Lighthouse, near Skerries, Co Dublin, when the incident happened just before 2pm.

Skerries lifeboat responded to the scene after a distress call was sent by the crew.

An RNLI spokeswoman said: “It appears that while working on the winch on board, a rope snapped.

“The man fell backwards on to a lump of metal. The trawler crew put out a distress call for assistance which was picked up by Coastguard.

“Skerries RNLI Lifeboat crew were alerted by the Coastguard and the lifeboat launched at 14.05 this afternoon,” she said.

An RNLI medic was on standby throughout the operation.

The man was given first aid and taken to Beaumont Hospital by ambulance for further treatment.