Maritime and Coastguard Agency
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Abandoned vessel prompts search for lone crewman
At 11.15 this morning (Monday) Falmouth Coastguard received a call from a fishing vessel, the 'Maria Louise' reporting that they had come across an abandoned vessel drifting 23 miles West North West from Trevose Head.
Falmouth Coastguard scrambled Rescue Helicopter 193 from RNAS Culdrose, and requested the launch of St Ives RNLI lifeboat to the scene to begin the search. A passage lifeboat, and HMS Severn, a naval vessel operating in the area, have also joined the search.
Further investigations yielded that there had been one person on board the vessel 'Midnight Oil,' which is an ex ship's lifeboat, and that the vessel had last been seen leaving Milford on the 28th June. Clothing and belongings were found on board the vessel.
The search is currently ongoing, with Falmouth Coastguard coordinating and Brixham Coastguard providing assistance.
Peter Davies, Brixham Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre Manager said:
"Falmouth Coastguard are currently coordinating a search for the man who was previously on board the abandoned vessel 'Midnight Oil'. The man has not been seen since the vessel left Milford on the 23rd and we are extremely concerned for his safety, with all resources undertaking an intensive search and fishing vessel Maria Louise standing by the vessel.
We would like to take this opportunity to remind members of the public to always make someone ashore aware of both your itinerary and movements when undertaking any journey, especially a solo expedition, and to always wear a lifejacket."
Press releases and further information about the Agency is available on the Web at http://www.mcga.gov.uk
