Maryport Inshore Rescue Team were paged by CGOC Belfast Coastguard following a report made by a member of the public, who had witnessed two people launching from the shore and rowing to sea on an inflatable dingy.
Concerned for the safety of the two people on board, who didn’t appear to have any life jackets or other life saving equipment onboard, along with an ever thickening mist being observed, Belfast requested that Maryport Rescue be launched and make contact with the people on board.
A spokesperson for Maryport Inshore Rescue said: "Upon arrival, the team made an assessment after discussing safety concerns, and a desision was made to escort the vessel and its crew back to shore.
"With the tide being very strong, the crew were observed to be struggling to paddle against the ebbing tide. The team took tow of the dingy and passed the casualties to our awaiting colleagues from Maryport Coastguard on the shore line.
"Please be prepared for any eventuality when putting to sea, ensure you’ve all the right equipment required and someone knows what time you are going and what time your due back. Ensure you’ve checked local tide times and weather conditions & always wear a life jacket!"
