A YACHT in distress off Watchet was rescued by a Minehead lifeboat crew on Friday afternoon (September 25).

The 27-foot yacht was stricken with engine trouble and the crew anchored and radioed HM Coastguard for help at about 3 pm.

Minehead’s Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) Atlantic-class lifeboat Penny J II was launched and arrived to find the crew at risk in the choppy conditions with a dragging anchor.

The RNLI volunteers took the decision to tow the yacht to a safe mooring.

Watchet Marina staff gave advice on conditions in the harbour and helped to moor the vessel once it had been towed in

An RNLI spokesperson said: “Teamwork saves the day, along with a well prepared crew.

“Always carry a VHF radio or other means of communication.”