Dolphins stranded in north Mayo rescued

Ballyglass RNLI and the local Mayo Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) saved a number of live stranded dolphins in Blacksod Bay at the weekend.

Ballyglass RNLI'S inshore lifeboat was requested to launch on Saturday afternoon by Malin Head Coast Guard after receiving a call to assist volunteer members of Mayo IWDG who were responding to two live stranded dolphins.

There was a risk to life due to fading light, danger of fog and dangerous terrain.

Three volunteer crew members launched the inshore lifeboat at Saleen Harbour shortly after 5 p.m. and were on the scene at Ardmore in Blacksod Bay within minutes.

On assessing the scene and coordinating with IWDG members on site it was decided to relocate the common dolphins to deeper waters in the bay to give them the best chance possible.

The lifeboat escorted the IWDG member (who had been assisting the effort from a canoe) safely back to port.

In an update on their social media, Ballyglass RNLI said 'well done' to helm PJ Walker and volunteer crew Kayley Geraghty and Brandon Geraghty, assisted by five shore crew for launch, recovery and readying the boat for service.

If you see anyone in difficulty on or near the water dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.