Three rescued from sunken fishing vessel, search ongoing for two missing
Intensive rescue operation continues in English Channel near Plymouth
Three people have been rescued from a French fishing vessel that sank in the English Channel, while an urgent search remains for two others still missing.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) initiated an intensive search south-west of Eddystone Lighthouse, off Plymouth, since receiving a distress call from the vessel on Saturday evening.
An MCA spokesperson said: "HM Coastguard maintained the intensive search during the night and it is continuing today with multiple assets sent to help with the search. Three people were rescued last evening from the French-registered fishing vessel which had made the call for help. They were taken to hospital for further care."
Efforts to find the two unaccounted individuals continue, with various resources deployed, including a coastguard rescue helicopter, a fixed wing aircraft, RNLI lifeboats from Falmouth and Plymouth, and local vessels.
The vessel's distress signal was received shortly after 6pm on Saturday, leading to immediate mobilisation of the rescue operation.
As the search progresses, details concerning the circumstances leading to the vessel's sinking and information about those involved are yet to emerge.
Authorities are focused on the ongoing rescue efforts with hopes of a successful outcome.