Mudeford RNLI lifeboat goes to the rescue of grounded yacht off Christchurch Harbour

MUDEFORD RNLI went to the rescue of a yacht which ran aground at the entrance to Christchurch Harbour.

The sailboat lost power and drifted into shallow water having successfully crossed Poole Bay shortly after 8pm on Friday.

Its crew managed to push it back into deeper water and set the anchor before calling the coastguard for help.

Lifeboat Mudeford Servant launched around 8.20pm and arrived on scene 10 minutes later, finding the casualties safe and well.

However, due to the forecast weather conditions and fading light, the volunteer crew decided to tow the yacht into the harbour.

They brought it to Avon Marina within 50 minutes.

Helm Nathan Jauns said: “The crew of the vessel did everything right. With the weather forecast worsening, the skipper’s early decision to raise the alarm was the best course of action and resulted in a successful outcome.”