Two rescued from yacht off Dorset coast
The boat was taking part in this weekend's Rolex Fastnet yacht race.
Two people have been rescued from a yacht amid gale-force winds off the coast of Dorset.
Poole and Swanage lifeboat crews were called to help a yacht experiencing steering issues at 8:20pm yesterday.
Conditions in the harbour were lively, South westerly winds gusting 7 to 8, with relentless heavy rain. The lifeboats rendezvoused at the entrance of the harbour and Poole lifeboat took over the tow.
It had been one of 450 yachts participating in the Cowes to Cherbourg Rolex Fastnet race.
Volunteer Helm Jonathan Clark said,
‘With the challenging conditions out their tonight, RNLI lifeboats from Yarmouth, Swanage and Weymouth are being kept very busy, helping to keep people safe and there are a lot of vessels in Poole tonight, seeking safe haven.
"The forecast seems to be quieting down a little tomorrow, we wish all vessels and especially Medallia safe passage in the race down to the rock’.
This is the 77th call out for the volunteer crews so far this year.