THE new Harwich inshore lifeboat went to the aid of a motorboat which ran aground in thick fog.

The crew were called out just before 8am today after a vessel with four people aboard got into trouble just inside the River Deben.

Felixstowe Ferry assistant harbour master Stephen Read also attended the incident and agreed to wait with the vessel while the tide came in.

A Harwich RNLI spokesman said: "Despite it being a bright day here on the coast today, fog is continuing to present a challenge at times.

"Having radar on the new inshore lifeboat is certainly a help.

"When we attend incidents at the River Deben entrance, we often work with Stephen Read and we are grateful for his help once again today."

The lifeboat was back at its base by 10am.