Community Rescue in 'urgent appeal' to replace lost sonar equipment

By David Hunter

Community Rescue volunteers have launched an urgent appeal to replace a life saving piece of equipment. 

During a dramatic rescue this weekend the £28,000 item was lost in the River Foyle as the charity dashed to the scene of a person in difficulty. 

The group from Antrim had been in Derry Londonderry to support Foyle Search & Rescue in another mission when they received an emergency call. 

A spokesperson said: "As we were the nearest rescue resource and the person was in need of immediate rescue our only option was to respond immediately and in doing so we unfortunately have been left without our sonar.

"The person in difficulties was rescued from the river by the CRS and given immediate aid and then transferred to Foyle SAR boat and transported to an awaiting ambulance. 

"The quick response of the CRS and Foyle SAR has undoubtably saved this person’s life and we are very pleased to hear that they are recovering well."

The team now need to replace the lost piece of equipment so they can continue to respond to the many requests for those missing in water across the country.

The sonar tool is essential to allowing the teams to find people as quickly as possible and return them to their families and friends.

People can donate here , by contacting Q Radio or Community Rescue directly at  info@communityrescue.org