Frank Casey (3rd from left), Chairman of Lough Ree Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Club receiving the keys of a long-term loan Volkswagen LT van from Gerry Donlon (fourth from left), Sales Manager, John Keanes & Sons, Volkswagen dealers, Roscommon. Also, pictured are members and divers from the club.
A County Roscommon Volkswagen dealership has come to the aid of one of the country’s best sports clubs. Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club, based on the River Shannon at Lanesborough suffered a devastating fire to their premises, which caused over a hundred thousand euros in damage to the club house and equipment.
Lough Ree Sub Aqua search and rescue has helped to locate dozens of people who tragically have lost their lives on the waterways of Ireland so when John Keane and Sons, Volkswagen dealers at Lanesborough Road, Roscommon Town heard of the terrible damage done to the club’s transport in the July fire, they immediately responded by offering help with transport for the voluntary club and its divers.
A New Volkswagen LT van was immediately made available by the dealership to allow the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club continue their work in search and rescue around the country. The dealership also offered help on an ongoing basis to ensure the club could get around and transport its divers to and from search locations and scenes.
“We were absolutely delighted when John Keane rang us and offered the help” said Francis Casey, Chairman of Lough Ree Sub Aqua club. “At the time we were still coming to terms with the damage caused by the fire so it was brilliant to be able to say we did not need to worry about transport – even though our old van was completely destroyed in the blaze.”
“We were pleased to be able to help,” John Keane said. “We know the tremendous work the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club does for families who are waiting to try and recover the remains of their loves ones from the waterways when tragedy strikes. So we offered our assistance to the club and were delighted they could avail of the new Volkswagen LT immediately and a replacement van until they get back to normal”.
Lough Ree Sub Aqua club lost two rigid inflatable boats in the fire and had substantial damage caused to other equipment as well as their van. They are now fundraising to buy a replacement compressor pump for their club house which was also damaged by fire.
If you would like to give further help please contact Lough ree sub aqua club chairman Francis Casey at 087 9817784.