Search and rescue operation underway off coast of Tunstall for fishing boat crew member

A search and rescue operation is underway off the coast of Tunstall for a crew member who has fallen from a fishing boat.

Just after 11 am today HM Coastguard received a 999 call from a fisherman situated 0.75nm off the village of Tunstall reporting that his friend had fallen overboard after their vessel had broken down.

His friend tried to assist the crew member by throwing a life ring into the sea and also deploying a flare.

A coastguard helicopter and at least 16 fishing boats were sent to the area.