Glasgow And Ships Of The Clyde

Ardrossan Pilot Michael Cougan rescues a man from drowning

From "The Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald" dated Friday 17th May 1895

A LATE BATH

In going aboard about eleven o'clock on Saturday night, the mate of the smack "Dasher," of Ardrossan, accidentally fell into the water.
When the steamship "Black Rock" was leaving the harbour a few minutes later, the captain reported to the Pilots at the dock gates that he fancied he had heard someone fall into the water at the east end of the old dock.

One of the Pilots, Michael Cougan, with praiseworthy promptitude, secured a boat, and proceeded in the direction indicated.
Guided by the cries, he came upon the mate clinging to a rope close to the "Dasher," and, with assistance, picked him up.

Mr. Cougan has on several occasions been instrumental in saving life.
In August last, when he was mate of the "Clio", he succeeded in rescuing Captain Robinson, Glasgow Street, under circumstances of considerable danger.
As a swimmer he is still remembered in connection with the wreck of the "Annetta."