Stormy conditions hamper search for man missing off Antrim coast

The search for a man missing off the north Antrim coast has ended for the day because stormy winds made conditions too dangerous to continue, police said.

The 38-year-old man was fishing on rocks at Ramore Head in Portrush yesterday afternoon when he is thought to have swept into the water.

A search involving lifeboats, coastguard teams, a police helicopter and an Irish coastguard helicopter was also called off last night due to poor light.

Police earlier warned some members of the public at Ramore have placed themselves in significant danger by entering the water or attempting to search independently of police and coastguard crews.

A spokesman said: “Police understand that people want to help however we would ask that for their own safety members of the public allow only properly trained and equipped police and coastguard personnel to conduct the search.

“Deteriorating weather and sea conditions mean that the search environment is extremely challenging and police do not want to see anyone put at risk. “Any properly trained and equipped volunteers who have already attended should make contact with police at the scene prior to attempting any kind of search activity themselves.”