A FUNDRAISER has been launched for the families of three fishermen who went missing off the coast of Conwy.

Skipper Carl McGrath and crewmen Ross Ballantine and Steve ‘Alan’ Minard were reported missing after their whelk fishing boat, the Nicola Faith, failed to arrive at Rhos-on-Sea harbour last Wednesday night.

A huge search was carried out by RNLI and Coastguard lifeboat and helicopter crews but it was stood down on Friday evening after there were no sightings of the lost vessel. An investigation has now been launched by the UK Government’s Marine Accident Investigation Branch.

The Nicola Faith was built by skipper Carl McGrath three years ago.

The Nicola Faith was built by skipper Carl McGrath three years ago.

The JustGiving fundraiser, set up by Neil McCaster, is aiming to raise £10,000 for the families who face “the double hit” of losing their loved ones amid the financial crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

A total of £3,300 has been gathered so far as donations continue.

“Three families have suddenly found themselves in a situation that none of us would want to be in,” said Mr McCaster. “Their loved ones are still missing after an extensive and prolonged search.

“This page is to financially help the direct families of the missing fishermen from the fishing boat Nicola Faith, they will have bills that need servicing now and unfortunately they do not go away.

“Tragically three families are now without their men and now have the double hit of also now being without their income during the worst pandemic in 100 years. All money raised will go to them to help them through this awful time and ensure they are provided for, at least in the short term.

“[It is] simple to do and it will mean a lot to the families to know that humanity and support still exists."

The fundraiser comes after Mr McGrath’s sister Lauren Hynes and fiancé Jake Cox launched their own appeal to thank RNLI volunteer rescuers for their efforts during the two-day search, which has raised almost £7,400.

Llandudno Lifeboat Station held an online prayer vigil for the fishing crew at the Boathouse in Craig y Don on Saturday night.

Lifeboat Chaplain, Father Phil Barratt, lit a candle and gave a prayer for the missing men.

Duty controller for HM Coastguard Rob Priestley said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends and the wider community at this difficult time.”