Stranraer: The station's 15ft 6in D class inflatable lifeboat was on exercise on the morning of Sunday September 9, 1984, when it became clear to the crew that a specially converted Volkswagen Beetle needed towing to safety after it had entered the water in Loch Ryan. Its occupants were attempting to 'drive' the car across the Irish Sea to Larne for a television programme Duncan Dares. The weather was cold and wet and there was a fresh north-westerly breeze, force 5, blowing. On entering the water the Volkswagen's engine failed and the car began to drift towards a moored yacht. The lifeboat, manned by Helmsman Terry Simpson and Crew Members Eric McCune and Glyn Jones, came alongside and, with two crew members entering the water, a tow rope was attached. The car was brought safely back to Wig Bay slipway. Another attempt at the crossing was made in the afternoon with the same result, the lifeboat having to tow the car back to the shore. Photograph by courtesy of F. H. McCarlie.