Search for missing fisherman called off
THE SEARCH for a fisherman missing from a fishing boat 20 miles to the northwest of Orkney has been stood down.
Two coastguard helicopters and two military aircraft had searched an extensive area since early Monday morning.
A coastguard spokesman said that after talking to the crew of the fishing boat Apollo and with their agreement the search for the missing man had been called off late on Monday afternoon.
There is no information as to the identity of the missing crew member.
UK coastguard duty controller Angus MacIver said: “Despite an intensive air and sea search involving the fishing vessel and aircraft rescue resources from Scotland and international military agencies, the missing man has not been located.
“The fishing vessel is returning to harbour and our deepest sympathies are with the family and remaining crew.”
With gale to severe gale force westerly winds, conditions in the area – to the west of Fair Isle – were described as “very rough” and “challenging”.
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