Ballycotton RNLI in East Cork was launched at 7.30 pm this evening following a request from Valentia Coastguard to a report of two swimmers thought to be missing off Garryvoe beach approx. two miles west of Ballycotton by a concerned member of the public.
Conditions were good with clear visibility.
Ballycotton RNLI all-weather Trent class lifeboat Austin Lidbury and its boarding boat carried out an extensive search between Arhnahinch and Garryvoe beach.
Two members of the volunteer crew from the boarding boat went ashore and spoke with several members of the public. No sign of the swimmers was found and it is believed they had returned to shore and the call-out was treated as a false alarm with good intent.
All crew from Ballycotton RNLI returned safely at 9.00 pm.
We would remind everyone to respect the water, to understand the risks and to stay safe. Never swim alone. If you see someone in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard. Consider wearing a wetsuit and bright coloured hat and safety buoy for longer swims.