From John Kinsman
Royal Navy nuclear submarine in near miss with ferry
A nuclear powered royal navy submarine had a near miss with a ferry in the Irish sea it has emerged. The MOD would not confirm which of its ten submarines was involved. All of its submarines are nuclear powered but only four carry trident nuclear missiles. An investigation has been launched into the incident which occurred at the end of last year. The ferry was the Stena Superfast VII which operates between Northern Island and Scotland. The vessel with a capacity for 1,300 passengers and 600 cars sails between Belfast and Cairnryan.
The submarine was submerged at the depth needed to extend its periscope above the surface of the water. A spokesman for the Marine Accident Investigation Branch said, “In November we were informed of a close quarters incident between the roll on roll off ferry Stena Superfast VII and a submarine operating at periscope depth. We have carried out a preliminary assessment of the evidence in this case and the chief inspector of Marine Accident has decided to open a safety investigation.”
A spokesman for the Royal Navy confirmed the sighting of a Royal Navy submarine between Belfast and Stranraer in November and are said to be cooperating with the investigation. At no stage was the ferry or its passengers or crew in any danger.
Man dies after harbour rescue
A man who was rescued from the River Clyde after disappearing from a café died in hospital. The 42 year old was reported missing from the venue in Greenock at around 13.00 hrs on Saturday 26th January. Police, Coastguards and Fire Service carried out a search for the missing man and he was recovered on the harbour at 1430 hrs. He died in hospital shortly after. Police spokesperson said inquiries are on-going to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. A report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.
Coastwatch St Monans
Coastwatch St Monans have had a busy month. They have been running a recruitment appeal for volunteers. John Kinsman, Station Manager, said due to the appeal they now have two new recruits, which brings the team to seven members. The St Monans Coastwatch station covers 12 miles of coastline from Pittenweem and Lower Largo. The Coastwatch St Monans is based in an old historic windmill to the east of St Monans village.