COASTGUARD ALERTED AS VESSEL TAKES IN WATER

Clyde Coastguard was alerted at 6:20 p.m. on 5 June 2001 when the pilot cutter 'Toward' reported she was taking in water at a position North of Little Cumbrae with three people on board.

Clyde Coastguard scrambled the Royal Naval rescue helicopter from Prestwick, tasked the Largs Coastguard Rescue Team and requested the launch of the RNLI lifeboat from Largs. The Calmac ferry from Loch Alainn responded to the incident and also proceeded to the scene.

The rescue helicopter lowered a crewman and pump on to the vessel while the lifeboat towed 'Torward' into Largs Marina where the Coastguard Rescue Team and Strathclyde Fire Brigade met her at 7:14 p.m.