Enniskillen RNLI came to the aid of two people last night (Sunday 26 April) after their cruiser got into difficulty on Lower Lough Erne.

At 9.55pm, Enniskillen RNLI’s inshore lifeboat John and Jean Lewis, was launched at the request of Belfast Coastguard following a report that a vessel with two people onboard had developed steering difficulties.

Winds were north-easterly at the time, Force three. Visibility was good with clear conditions.

The volunteer crew searched for the vessel in an area provided to the Coastguard but couldn’t find anything initially. Following an updated report that the casualties had further advised they were in the Castle Archdale area, the lifeboat crew found the vessel moored alongside Crevinishaughy Island.

The crew checked the well-being of the people on the boat and found that both were safe and well.

With the boat owner’s permission, a tow was established with the vessel and the boat was then towed safely back to shore.

Speaking following the call out, Enniskillen RNLI Helm Aidan Quigley said: "As we approach another summer, we would remind everyone planning a trip on the lake to make sure boats are ready and properly prepared before heading out onto the water.

"Ensure you have enough fuel and all the required safety equipment onboard and that you always carry a means of communication. Know where you are going and let someone on the shore know when you are due back. If you do get into difficulty, the clearer you can be about your specific location, the quicker the lifeboat crew can come to your aid.

"If you get into trouble or see someone else in difficulty, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard."