THIEVES who stole an engine from one of Portpatrick’s lifeboats have been identified, thanks to residents.
The lifeboat team took to social media last Friday to appeal for information and witnesses after the engine from the team’s boarding boat was stolen.
The smaller boat is used to ferry the crew to and from the lifeboat when it is on the storm mooring in the inner harbour. It is also used for crew training.
In the days that followed their appeal, nearby businesses and residents submitted CCTV footage that helped to identify the perpetrators.
The lifeboat team have expressed their gratitude to the community after they were ‘inundated’ with offers of support and donations to replace the missing engine. A spokesperson said: “Everyone here at Portpatrick Lifeboat has been taken aback by the incredible support we received.
“The local community in Portpatrick responded by viewing CCTV footage and we understand the perpetrators have been identified. The matter is in the hands of the police and the crime number is CR/0361141/24
“But more than that, we were inundated with extremely kind offers of replacement tanks and funds to cover the replacement. We truly appreciate your support.”
