Portobello Beach incident: Huge search and rescue operation stood down after four hours
The incident sparked a huge emergency operation
A major search and rescue operation which was launched following reports of two girls “in difficulty” in the water off Portobello Beach has been stood down.
The incident, which was first reported to HM Coastguard at 4.55pm on May 28, sparked a huge emergency response, with lifeboat crews, rescue helicopters, police and Coastguard teams having descended on the seaside suburb.
For four hours, helicopters were seen scouring the waters from above, while lifeboat crews carried out searches in the water. Several emergency vehicles also lined Portobello Promenade.
But the Coastguard confirmed tonight that the search has been halted.
A spokesperson said: “HM Coastguard coordinated the response to a report made at about 4.55pm on 28 May of two girls in difficulty in the water off Portobello beach.
“Two HM Coastguard helicopters were sent as well as Coastguard Rescue Teams from South Queensferry, North Berwick and Fisherrow, and RNLI lifeboats from Queensferry and Anstruther. Police Scotland attended.
“After an extensive search, no one was found to be in distress and the HM Coastguard response was stood down at about 8.55pm, pending any new information.”
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