John Fannon, the helmsman of Amble inshore lifeboat, received facial injuries when a fishing line caught the lifeboat and whipped the weight and hook into his face.

Warkworth Harbour Commissioners and RNLI staff were shocked and appalled at the incident which they said almost cost the lifeboatman his sight.

A spokesman for the commissioners also voiced his concern at the latest in a series of incidents involving anglers on the quayside and wooden promenade failing to reel in when boats are entering or leaving the harbour.

Rodney Burge, operations manager for Amble lifeboat, said: "It could have been extremely dangerous. It could have blinded him or could have pulled his skin all to bits.

"It's not the first time it's happened and it's just a matter of time before someone gets hurt."

Maurice Burnett, chairman of the commissioners, said: "Anglers are fully aware that they must reel in and give way to boats using the harbour but sadly some simply ignore this simple rule and we now see the consequences of their inconsiderate behaviour.

"The harbour authority has always acknowledged the attraction of the harbour frontage to the general public and have allowed open access on the expectation that common sense behaviour towards harbour activity would prevail."

Signs are in place along the promenade informing anglers of their responsibilities. However, these are ignored by some.

The incident, in February, occurred during an exercise involving both of Amble's lifeboats.

The all-weather lifeboat was heading out of the harbour, followed by the bright orange-coloured D-Class inflatable inshore boat with Mr Fannon at the helm.

Mr Burnett added: "The angler concerned ignored the obvious presence of these lifeboats and continued fishing with total disregard for the safety of others.

"The harbour authority allows anglers to fish from the piers and quays but they must follow the rules.

"I implore the majority of responsible anglers to set an example to the minority who run the risk of spoiling their sport, and encourage the minority to follow the rules."