A fundraiser supporting the families of three Isle of Lewis fishermen whose boat disappeared a week ago has raised more than £32,000. The money will help the loved ones of Douglas Craigie, Norman Murray and Murdo Morrison.
Douglas Craigie's body was recovered after the fishing vessel Kilda failed to reach port following its departure near the Port of Ness on Tuesday night, October 13. His crewmates, Norman Murray, 40, known as Tam, and Murdo Morrison, 23, remain missing and are being treated as missing persons.
Community Support Surpasses Goal
The Western Isles Fishermen's Association set up a GoFundMe page to assist the families, who have young children. Donations quickly exceeded the initial target, topping £32,000 within 12 hours.
Organisers said the incident has had a “devastating impact on the whole community.” A statement on the page read: "This unimaginable tragedy has had a devastating impact on the whole community, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the three men. We pray that Tam and Murdo are found."
Ongoing Search and Safety Measures
The association has engaged with communities in Carloway, Barvas, Ness and Stornoway to identify key individuals who will ensure all affected families receive support. The statement added: "Please donate so that these families and their children are supported through the tough and challenging times ahead."
On Saturday, police identified an area of coast within the Marine Accident Investigation Branch's (MAIB) exclusion zone that could hold answers to what happened to the FV Kilda. Specialist officers deployed a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to search the area off the north coast of Lewis, but operations were halted due to "sea conditions and anchoring challenges."
Police Scotland said searches will resume as soon as it is safe. The MAIB exclusion zone remains in place for divers in an area between the Butt of Lewis and Port of Ness.
Appeal for Information
Chief Inspector Ross McCartney, local area commander for the Western Isles, said: "We understand how distressing this must be for everyone affected by this tragic incident and our thoughts remain with them at this time. The families have asked for their privacy to be respected."
He added: "I want to assure everyone that as soon as it is safe to do so, we will resume our efforts and do all we can to get answers for those affected. The exclusion zone remains in place for divers in the area where searches have been carried out. However, vessels can still operate in this area."
McCartney urged the public not to put themselves at risk: "Please do not attempt to carry out searches in areas which put you at risk of harm. If you believe you may have any information which could assist emergency services then please call 101 quoting reference 3575 of 13 October."
Officers will remain in the Port of Ness area for anyone with concerns or information. Donations can be made via the GoFundMe page.
