A huge search and rescue operation is currently underway for a fishing boat that went missing with three on board off the North Wales coast.
Both the coastguard and lifeboat are involved in the efforts to locate the vessel - with searches focused on the area off the coast of Rhyl.
The major search was launched after HM Coastguard received reports regarding an overdue fishing boat that had failed to return. They confirmed that a fishing vessel with three on board was due to return to shore at midnight last night but has not done so.
A total of six lifeboats are all out on the operation and a search and rescue helicopter from Caernarfon is also on the scene. A fixed wing plane is also joining the search efforts.
A spokesperson for HM Coastguard said: "At just after 10am today (28th January), HM Coastguard received a report of an overdue fishing vessel with three people onboard.
“The vessel had departed from Conwy, on the north coast of Wales, yesterday (27th January). The vessel was expected back in port at midnight last night.
“HM Coastguard is currently coordinating an ongoing search and rescue response to locate the vessel.
“Rhyl, Bangor and Llandudno Coastguard Rescue Teams have been sent to assist along with five RNLI lifeboats from Rhyl, Llandudno and Conwy.
“The HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Caernarfon is also on scene assisting with searches.
“A fixed-wing Coastguard aircraft from Doncaster is also proceeding to the scene. Broadcasts have been made to alert vessels in the nearby area.”
The search is still ongoing with RNLI lifeboats from Rhyl, Conwy and Llandudno assisted by coastguard aircraft.
Police remain in attendance at Llandudno lifeboat station assisting the coastguard and the RNLI.
