Lifeboat crews called to rescue 44-foot yacht which ran aground

Lifeboat crews were called out by the coastguard to assist in the rescue of a 44-foot yacht on the coast of Ayrshire.

The yacht had run aground near Hunterston Power Station and by the time rescue teams had arrived, it was just afloat with eight crew members on board.

A volunteer crew member from Largs RNLI boarded the yacht to assist in checking for water ingress.

With no obvious signs of any damage and the casualty vessel now fully afloat, the yacht was then able to return under its own power to Largs Yacht Haven to be fully inspected.

Largs lifeboat then returned to the lifeboat station where it was cleaned, refuelled and made ready for service.

Those venturing out on the water have been reminded to check the weather and tide times.

Volunteer helm, Dave Stevens, said: “We would like to remind people to check weather and tide times before venturing out on the water and always check local signage and navigation charts for hidden dangers and hazards.

“If you get into difficulty at sea or along the coast, or spot someone else in trouble, always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

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