Origins

Lough Neagh Rescue was formed after the tragic loss of Mr. David Gray jnr. when his vessel sank on 3rd July, 1989 while on passage back to Kinnego Marina from Ballyronan. His three companions were rescued after 3.5 hours in the water. Following the accident, Mr. David Gray snr. and the family donated 1 6-6 Series Delta Lifeboat with the latest high-tech log compass and two 75hp Mariner outboard engines, in memory of david and to assist others in need on the lough. The boat was named "Bungy", the family name for David, and became the Kinnego Lifeboat. The boat was handed over to Craigavon Borough Council in October 1989 and is crewed by 22 volunteers from the Craigavon area. It was considered that one Rescue Boat could not provide the proper cover necessary for Lough Neagh and Mr. Gray approached the Northern Ireland Office for funding for a second. With help from Mr. Eric McKinley, clerk and Chief Executive of Craigavon Borough Council, and members of the crew, Mr. Gray managed to obtain a funding of £60,000 towards the purchase of a second boat to be based on the Battery Harbour, Arboe. The committee decided to name the second boat "The David Gray" after Mr. Gray snr. who had worked tirelessly to achieve his dream. During May 1990 HM Coastguard Belfast erected a new aerial on Black Mountain to give VHF cover to Lough Neagh. The historic development meant that all users of the lough would have the same protection as people on the Irish Sea. Lough Neagh Rescue and HM Coastguard have worked closely over the last 11 years for the care of those using Lough Neagh.