Two people rescued after yacht breaks down

The yacht being towed by Seahouses RNLI.

Yesterday afternoon, the UK Coastguard requested the launch of Seahouses all-weather lifeboat to go to the assistance of a 9.4-metre yacht, which was disabled approximately half-a-mile off Seahouses harbour.

The stricken vessel had two crew aboard and had been travelling from Eyemouth to Blyth when it suffered engine failure in choppy sea conditions and an increasing wind.

Local Coastguard shore-based teams were also mobilised from Seahouses and the all-weather lifeboat was quickly on scene and a crewman was put aboard to help the yacht crew secure a tow line.

The yacht was then taken in tow by the lifeboat to Seahouses. On arrival, it was safely moored up for repairs.

Local Coastguard rescue officers were awaiting the yacht’s arrival so they could speak with its crew and offer advice.

The previous day the same yacht had to call UK Coastguard with engine problems in the Firth of Forth and had set away from Eyemouth yesterday in an attempt to reach Blyth, without rectifying the mechanical problems.

Seahouses Lifeboat operations manager Ian Clayton said: “I understand the yacht skipper has been spoken to by UK Coastguard personnel.

“I can only urge leisure boat owners to ensure their craft are fully sea worthy before setting off, particularly at this time of year, when unpleasant weather conditions are forecast.

“While this was a simple tow in job, it could have been more complicated if he had not been so close to Seahouses when his engine failed.”