Investigation into mystery distress call after search called off

Latest update The search has been called off and an investigation has been launched.

A widescale hunt is underway off the coast of Cork after a mystery distress call from a yacht.

The three-man crew of the 'Blue Bird' said they had engine problems and were sinking, however emergency services have been unable to find it.

The call, picked up by the Valentia coastguard, came on the distress channel and claimed the yacht was one mile south of Roches Point at the entrance to Cork harbour.

But there is no sign of the boat in that location.

Two helicopters, three Coastguard units, three lifeboats and the Navy have now all joined the search.

It is still unclear if the distress call was genuine.

Updated 4pm The search has been called off and an investigation has been launched.