Overboard fisherman rescued off Dorset coast (From Dorset Echo)

Overboard fisherman rescued off Dorset coast

5:11pm Wednesday 13th March 2013 in News By Emma Walker

A FISHERMAN was rescued from the water after he fell overboard near Osmington.

The man was pulled to safety by a passing angler who had spotted someone in difficulty.

Portland Coastguard were alerted at 12.45pm this afternoon.

The fisherman, who was alone, slipped overboard when he was putting out gear.

He had been in the water for some time and was rushed to Dorset County Hospital after showing signs of hypothermia.

Dominic Lonsdale, watch manager at Portland Coastguard, said: "This man was very lucky to have been spotted and rescued by another fishing vessel, particularly with the cold water temperature.

"The man was wearing a two-piece flotation suit which aided his survival.

“We always recommend that commercial fishermen wear a lifejacket, personal flotation device or lifeline whilst working on the deck of a vessel at sea."