Charity swimmers saved from sinking boat

Fourteen people, including charity swimmers, have been rescued from a boat off the Isle of Wight after it started to sink.

The group was preparing to take part in a relay swim around the island on Thursday morning when the motor cruiser began listing.

The coastguard helicopter and lifeboats from Yarmouth and Freshwater were sent to an area off The Needles shortly after 6.00am.

The charity organising the event said everyone on board was rescued unhurt.

A coastguard spokesman said: "HM Coastguard has been coordinating the response after a motor cruiser reported it was taking on water.

"Yarmouth RNLI and Freshwater independent lifeboats were sent to rescue those on board.

"The coastguard helicopter from Lee-on-Solent was also sent to provide safety cover while the people were transferred to the lifeboat.

"Lymington and Needles coastguard rescue teams were also sent to meet the lifeboats."

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