Rescue operation underway for vessel with two crew members missing in English Channel

A boat with five people on board sent a distress signal in the English Channel on Saturday evening. The signal was received just after 6pm, southwest of Eddystone Lighthouse near Plymouth. Rescue teams responded quickly. A coastguard helicopter, a fixed-wing aircraft, and RNLI lifeboats from Plymouth and Falmouth were sent to the area. A third lifeboat from Salcombe also joined the search. By Sunday morning, three of the five people had been found. Two crew members were still missing. In total, more than 15 vessels took part in the search, including civilian boats and French fishing vessels. The aerial search has since been called off, but ships are continuing to search the water.