Divers rescued by Coastguard helicopter after becoming stuck on rocks

Three divers had to be rescued by helicopter after becoming stranded on rocks near Dunoon.

HM Coastguard requested help from Helensburgh lifeboat around 12.40pm on Sunday to assist the three divers stuck on the Gantock Rocks off Dunoon.

Crews described the weather conditions as “challenging” due to rough seas and strong winds before launching the lifeboat.

The lifeboat arrived at the rocks around 2pm using the shelter of the Kilcreggan coastline.

The casualties were then winched to safety by the Coastguard helicopter, and the lifeboat was stood from.

A Helensburgh spokesperson added: “The lifeboat launched at 1.30pm and slowly made its way along the shelter of the Kilcreggan coastline before crossing to the Dunoon area.

Divers rescued from rocks in Helensburgh Rhu Marina

Howard Morrison, Lifeboat operations manager, said: “Given the weather conditions at the time, we made a careful assessment of the situation before deciding to launch.

“The wind was very strong, over Force 8 at times. Fortunately, the three people were winched to safety.

“We have had some strong winds in the past few weeks and we urge people to stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and check the weather forecast and tide times before venturing out on the water or coastal walks.”

A spokesperson for HM Coastguard added: “Three divers reported to be in difficulty on the Gantocks rocks off Dunoon at about 12.40pm on December 22 were winched to safety by the HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Prestwick.

“The three people were met on land, safe and well, by Dunoon Coastguard Rescue Team. The RNLI’s inshore lifeboat from Helensburgh and Police Scotland also attended.”