In a dramatic rescue operation, a sheep fell from a ledge in the Waterford Estuary and was saved from being engulfed by the rising tide. The incident occurred on Wednesday, prompting the Irish Coast Guard to dispatch the volunteer lifeboat crew at Fethard RNLI to the scene.
The crew, led by volunteer Helm Mick Roche and comprising Natasha Blanchfield, Eoin Bird and Diarmuid Bird, launched their boat from Duncannon and headed to the area known locally as Lady’s Bay, where the animal was stranded.
After arriving at the scene, the crew observed the sheep in distress and quickly sprang into action. Crew member Diarmuid Bird bravely entered the water, retrieved the sheep, and brought it to safety on a nearby pebble beach.
Reflecting on the incident, Helm Mick Roche stressed the importance of being cautious and vigilant around the sea and waterside. "This evening's launch highlights the importance of taking care and being wary of all edges around the sea and waterside.
Slips and falls happen in all kinds of locations, not just high cliff edges," he said.
The rescue operation was carried out under fine weather conditions, with a light southerly breeze in the Waterford Estuary.