Search and rescue training exercise to take place

The search and rescue training exercise in waters around the south of the island

Helicopters, lifeboats, and a fixed-wing spotter aircraft are set to be used in a large scale search and rescue training exercise off the Isle of Man's south coast.

Manx, Irish and UK coastguards, lifeboats and the fire service are set to take part to test their preparations in the event of a major incident.

Andy Mulhern from the Coastguard said the simulation was a "vital part of ensuring our search and rescue agencies are ready to respond together in real incidents".

He said advanced warning had been given to reassure the public ahead of activity in Manx waters between 09:00 and 16:00 BST to let people know it was an exercise and "something catastrophic hadn't happened".

The agencies taking part are the Isle of Man Coastguard, HM Coastguard, Irish Coastguard, the RNLI and the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service.

'Realistic training scenario'

Mr Mulhern said the exact location is set to be determined by events on the day, with weather conditions and operational considerations informing any final decisions.

He said the resources being deployed in the "realistic training scenario" would mean the public might be able to see "quite a lot of activity", and so the warning had been issued.

"We hope these scenarios never happen, but the reality is at some point a significant incident will mean we're needed," he said.

"We need to train and make sure we can work together properly so it can be resolved as quickly, efficiently and as safely as possible."

"It's all about keeping the Irish sea and our public as safe as we possibly can do."

The collaborative exercise would "strengthen our collective ability to save lives and keep people safe at sea", he added.