A couple from Fermanagh lost their boat home when it sank during Storm Dave. Sarah and Red Donlin lived aboard the vessel on a lake with their dog Stanley.

The incident occurred shortly before midnight amid strong winds. Sarah heard running water while drifting off to sleep. Red found the cabin flooding rapidly.

They scooped water for about 20 minutes but could not keep up. The couple grabbed belongings and their dog, then escaped to their car in darkness and heavy rain. The boat was 80 percent submerged by then.

They sat in the car for over an hour before driving to Lisburn to stay with family. The Cleenish Centre in Bellanaleck later provided temporary accommodation.

The next day, workers pumped out the water and lifted the boat. Damage included a destroyed wood-burning stove and most possessions.

Originally from Belfast, the Donlins moved to Fermanagh for a simpler life. Red works as a handyman locally. Sarah returned to caring work after leaving an office job.

They volunteer at the Cleenish Centre, a Christian youth retreat in Bellanaleck. A GoFundMe campaign by a friend has raised £813 toward a £1,100 goal. The couple expressed thanks for the local support.