Lifeboat launched as fishing boat took in water

A fishing boat which was taking in water to the south of Westray is being towed towards Pierowall this afternoon, with the Coastguard saying the crew are safe and well after putting out a mayday due to the ingress of water.

Kirkwall Lifeboat was launched to go to the aid of the New Venture with two crew onboard shortly after 2pm. Three fishing boats also responded, with one just 10 minutes away.

A Coastguard spokesman said the boat was two nautical miles south of the Point of Huro, Westray, at the time, adding that the crew did exactly the right thing in putting out a mayday when the situation occurred.

The Kingfisher took the New Venture under tow as onboard pumps were by then coping with the water. The boats are now headed for Pierowall, with the lifeboat also accompanying the vessels.

On shore, the Westray Coastguard Rescue Team were also alerted, and are attending in the coastal area.