Fishermen rescued off Cork coast in freezing temperatures and high winds

Temperatures were freezing and a bitter north-easterly wind — force 5-6 — created a two-metre swell.

Three men have been rescued off the East Cork coast after their boat was in danger of washing up against rocks.

The 11m boat they were on had been disabled 2.5 miles off Power Head at around 2am on Tuesday.

Temperatures were freezing and a bitter north-easterly wind — force 5-6 — created a two-metre swell.

Ballycotton RNLI received the request to launch at 2.15am and was told there was a risk of the vessel being washed up against the rocks.

The crew boarded The Austin Lidbury all-weather lifeboat and headed west towards Power Head.

They located the boat and ensured all those aboard were safe.

Then, despite the difficult conditions, they were able to secure a tow line and bring the boat to Crosshaven. The boat was not taken back to Ballycotton as conditions were not deemed safe to do so.

The RNLI crew and the three fishermen arrived safely to Crosshaven at 5.15am.

In a lucky turn, as the group entered the mouth of Cork harbour, they were greeted and escorted by a pod of friendly dolphins.

Ballycotton RNLI coxswain Eolan Walsh said that the successful rescue was down to the three men calling for help as soon as they encountered any difficulties and also by wearing their lifejackets.

"Conditions were extremely cold and difficult and I am thankful to all the volunteers who answered the call last night," said Mr Walsh.

"We would remind anyone planning a trip to sea that if you get into difficulty or see somebody else in trouble on the water or along the coast, dial 999 or 112 or use VHF radio CH 16 and ask for the Coast Guard."

The crew involved in the rescue were coxswain Eolan Walsh, station mechanic Adam Hussey, navigator Eolan Breathnach, Cíaran Walsh, Michael Kenneally, Claire McCarthy, Ronan Lynch and Adrian Erangey.