A LIFEBOAT crew was called to fix a damaged yacht outside of Harwich harbour.

Harwich RNLI crew's inshore lifeboat was diverted from a visit to a sailing club to assist a dismasted yacht on Saturday afternoon.

After everyone on board the yacht was confirmed as safe and not injured, the lifeboat stood by on scene while the yacht’s crew worked to secure the damaged rigging and prepare for the boat to be towed to safety.

Jon Bliss, volunteer crew member, said: "Thankfully the yacht’s crew hadn’t been injured.

"The tow back to Suffolk Yacht Harbour took a considerable amount of time due to the squally conditions, but was completed safely.

"We were met by a Coastguard Rescue Team on arrival and they assisted in securing the vessel."

The lifeboat arrived back at Harwich shortly before 4.30pm and was recovered, washed down, refuelled and made ready for service.