Both RNLI Calshot lifeboats were launched this week to the aid of a group of five people who had reported to the Saxon Wharf Marina Night Watchman that they had broken down and needed a tow to safety.

The Night Watchman was unable to assist, so Solent Coastguard was alerted and RNLI Calshot was called to investigate as no accurate position was known.

Both RNLI Calshot lifeboats were launched to search for the casualties and their vessel as the report suggested that someone might have gone into the water to try and swim ashore.

The stricken boat eventually drifted near to the shore so the party were able to disembark and walk home.

The owner, concerned for his boat, then returned in a small tender to try and tow his vessel into a safer position.

The owner was taken aboard the Calshot all-weather lifeboat to be warmed up as he was suffering from the cold.

The previous evening the crew had taken the boat for a trip over to Cowes and had encountered engine problems on the way back.

Lifeboat Coxswain Duncan Christie said: “This boat was not the most seaworthy of vessels that I had seen of late and I urged the owner to make sure it is in a serviceable condition before setting sail again.”