A fisherman has tragically died after he and a fellow crew member went overboard from their vessel during a mayday emergency off the Northumberland coast.
Massive Multi-Agency Rescue Effort Launched
The UK-registered fishing boat Fortitude issued a desperate mayday call at approximately 4.20pm on Sunday, 11 January. The vessel reported that two of its crew were in the water roughly 14 miles off the coast of Newbiggin.
This triggered an immediate and large-scale response from emergency services across the region. HM Coastguard coordinated the operation, deploying a search and rescue helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft to the scene. Simultaneously, RNLI lifeboats from both Amble and Tynemouth were launched, alongside two nearby commercial vessels that responded to the coastguard's distress relay.
Rescuers Battle Treacherous Four-Metre Waves
Lifeboat crews faced extremely dangerous conditions as they raced to the scene. A representative from Tynemouth RNLI stated that crews battled through waves approximately four metres high to reach the casualties.
After a gruelling five-hour operation at sea, the lifeboats returned to their stations. The RNLI reiterated its safety message, reminding the public: "Remember if you need assistance by the coast dial 999 and ask for the coastguard."
Tragic Outcome and Ongoing Investigation
Despite the valiant efforts of all involved, the incident ended in tragedy. Northumbria Police confirmed the death of a man at sea off the coast of Blyth. His next of kin have been informed.
The second crew member was recovered from the water and taken to shore. He was met at Blyth Harbour by a significant medical contingent, including three double-crewed ambulances, three Hazardous Area Response Team vehicles, and a medical car from the Great North Air Ambulance Service. He was subsequently transported to Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital for further treatment.
Police have stated that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and a report is being prepared for the coroner. As is standard procedure, officers are supporting the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) with its enquiries into the circumstances of the accident.
