Missing Boater Found Safe in Ireland After Sea Ordeal

Chris Ellery, an avid photographer from Bristol, successfully landed his small vessel in Ireland after experiencing a breakdown in the Irish Sea. Mr. Ellery had not returned from a solo journey originating from Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, on Thursday, prompting an extensive search operation. HM Coastguard reported that he disembarked on Saturday and proceeded to a police station in County Wicklow. Irish police, known as Gardai, confirmed the 54-year-old’s condition as “tired but okay”. According to a Coastguard spokesman, Mr. Ellery departed from French Camp Bay on Thursday with an anticipated return the next day. However, while navigating west towards Ireland, his three-meter (10ft) black inflatable boat encountered engine malfunctions. The spokesman stated, “He broke down, but managed to get it going again. But his phone had also stopped working.” He further added, “He came ashore in County Wicklow and made his way to a local police station. They contacted Dyfed-Powys Police.” The spokesman concluded, “It’s good news.” Upon not hearing from Mr. Ellery, his family traveled to the port of Fishguard. His daughter, Kenzie, posted an appeal for assistance on social media. Nevertheless, she announced on Saturday afternoon that he had been located. In a Facebook post, she stated, “My dad is alive he has been found in Ireland.” Following his disappearance, an extensive search operation was initiated. HM Coastguard recommenced the two-day effort on Saturday, deploying an aircraft, multiple RNLI boat crews, two coastguard teams, and police across areas including north Pembrokeshire, Cardigan Bay, and St Brides Bay. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.