Larne RNLI warning over dangers of cross winds

It comes as lifeboats were launched on two occasions at the weekend following reporters of paddlerboarders in difficulty.

A post on the Larne RNLI Facebook page read: "Larne RNLI launched both of their lifeboats today [April 17] to reports of a paddleboarder in difficulty at Ballygally.

"Launching at the request of Belfast Coastguard, both boats were underway to Ballygally when thankfully, the paddleboarder was reported safe back on the shore.

"As the boats turned to return to the station, Belfast Coastguard alerted them to another boarder in difficulty in Brown’s Bay.

"Whilst making their way towards the area, reports came through that the boarder had managed to make their way ashore."

Larne lifeboat operations manager, Allan Dorman, added: ‘We would like to remind people of the dangers of offshore winds and cross winds, which can very quickly pull someone further out to sea.

"Always have a way to contact the shore, or to have someone on dry land, who can raise an alarm if difficulties should arise."