First launch of new Easter Ross RNLI Agnes AP Barr lifeboat proves to be a poignant moment for thousands
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A BRAND new Easter Ross lifeboat responded to its first shout – one which was a poignant moment for thousands of people.
Invergordon's new Shannon Class Lifeboat RNLI Agnes AP Barr was summoned for its first shout after an emergency positioning indicating radio beacon triggered a response from the Aberdeen Coastguard.
A volunteer six-strong crew assembled for the shout to undertake a search from Cromarty Firth Sutors to Brora.
It was the first call to service for a vessel which holds 9500 names of loved ones as part of the RNLI Launch a Memory campaign. She became operational in the Easter Ross port in February.
Releasing details of the April 20 incident this weekend, Invergordon RNLI said the Coastguard call had come through at 6:17pm.
Initial tasking was to use the Shannon’s lifeboat state of the art technology VHF directional finder to help pinpoint the direction of the activated beacon, which was giving a 20 mile radius on Brora.
The crew made best speed to the initial search area and with the assistance of HM Coastguard Helicopter R151 from Inverness, an extensive search was carried out.
With further information coming through, the search radius was narrowed to five miles around Brora. The crew performed a parallel search until the UK Coastguard were satisfied no vessel was in distress.
The lifeboat was released from service and made the journey back to Invergordon’s West Harbour, where she was washed down, refuelled, cleaned to Covid-19 guidelines and made ready for service shortly after midnight.
News of the shout was a poignant moment for thousands of people who feel a close bond to a vessel carrying the names of their loved ones on its decal.
Some of them responded to news of the historic first shout.
Philmena Macguire posted: "So very moved to read about the first shout of the Agnes A P Barr. My dad would be so proud.Well done to all involved."
Liz Chapman wrote: "Well done everyone, glad it was a good result, and I'm sure you had the company of all 9500 missed love ones, including our son, he would love this. All stay safe."
Emma Sawford wrote: "Well done to all of you! My late fiancé’s name is on there he would be so proud as he was a big supporter of the RNLI. I’m so glad to have these updates on the boat. Keep safe everyone."
Dawn of a new era as lifeboat becomes operational
Fond farewell to trusted lifeboat
Invergordon's new lifeboat to include names of loved ones in unique memorial
