LISTEN: Swimmer dies after getting into difficulty in water in Co. Down

by Q Radio News

A woman has died after getting into difficulty while swimming in the sea in Bangor, County Down. 

The Coastguard and RNLI were called to Skipperstone beach at around 11.49am this morning. 

A spokesperson for Bangor RNLI said, "On arrival at the scene, the crew could see a member of the Bangor Coastguard Rescue Team with the casualty, but the proximity of the rocks combined with the weather, made it challenging to get too close. 

"Crew member Gavin Mitchell jumped into the water with a safety line attached, to make his way to the casualty. 

"Gavin and the Coastguard Rescue Team member together managed to move the casualty to relative shelter where they administered casualty care." 

The woman was assessed by paramedics but was declared dead at the scene. 

Police confirmed a post mortem will be carried out in due course, however, the death is not being treated as suspicious at this time. 

Northern Ireland Ambulance Service sent two emergency crews and a doctor to the scene.

The charity air ambulance was also tasked.

Bryan Lawther Operations manager at the RNLI spoke to Q Radio about the incident:

North Down DUP MLA Gordon Dunne has expressed his sympathy following the sad death of a Bangor Swimmer today.

The MLA added: ‘I would like to express my sincere condolences on the sad passing of a swimmer today in Skippingstone Bay close to Pickie in Bangor. This is a real tragedy and I would like to pass on my sincere sympathies to ladie’s family and friends. 

Swimming along the Coastline has become a popular leisure activity in recent years, and I know a number of friends who enjoying swimming in these areas on very regular basis. This tragic news is a cruel reminder to us all on the dangers of our sea and coastal areas.’

The local councillor David Chambers said his thoughts were with the victim's grieving relatives - he spoke to Q Radio.