Fundraiser for RNLI raises nearly £7,000 as search for missing fishermen stood down

Her Majesty’s Coastguard has been co-ordinating the search to find the men since they were reported missing just after 10am on January 28.

Dedicated RNLI lifeboat crews from Bangor, Llandudno, Flint and Rhyl Coastguard Rescue Teams and Rhyl, Hoylake and Llandudno, as well as the coastguard helicopter from Caernarfon and fixed-wing coastguard aircraft, have all been involved in an extensive search, along with North Wales Police.

Boats in the nearby area have also been keeping a look out for the missing vessel.

Duty Controller for HM Coastguard Rob Priestley said: “We have carried out highly-concentrated and thorough searches of wide areas off the north coast of Wales to locate this vessel – using all available resources – but, sadly, nothing has been found so far. Our thoughts are with the family and friends and the wider community at this difficult time.

“We would like to thank all of the teams and crews who have been involved with and participated in this large scale search effort since Thursday, as well as those vessels in the area and local community at large who have helped to provide as much information as possible to aid the search efforts.” 

Dedicated lifeboat crews have been searching for two days. Picture: Luw Jones

A fundraiser has been launched to thank the RNLI for their huge efforts. More than £1,000 has been raised.

Lauren Haynes, sister of skipper Carl McGrath, one of three missing crew members, said volunteer rescuers have been “absolutely fantastic” as efforts continue on land, sea and air to trace the lost vessel.

Ms Haynes said contact was lost with the Nicola Faith boat at 9.30pm on Wednesday before it failed to arrive as expected at Rhos-on-Sea harbour at 11pm.

The search has been a large scale effort. Picture: Luw Jones

"I am staying hopeful and all I want is my big brother back with me," she said.

Donate to the RNLI fundraiser by visiting Ms Haynes’ GoFundMe page.