A ''barely seaworthy' yacht bought on Ebay was rescued after the skipper got into difficulties off the Dorset Coast.

Weymouth Lifeboat was launched following a Mayday call last night.

The yacht was towed to Weymouth where the yachtsman was met by Wyke Coastguard Rescue Team.

A spokesman said:"The team was paged at 22:51 to meet Weymouth Lifeboat.

"The coxwain had requested our attendance on their return to Weymouth with a yacht which had put out a Mayday.

"The vessel's only occupant, who had been at sea for several days was unable to give an exact position and his behaviour gave cause for concern.

"We met the owner and spoke at length to him, everything began to fall into place.

"He was on what he felt was an enforced passage from Brixham to Holland.

"His yacht, barely seaworthy, had been purchased on Ebay.

"We fully understood his predicament and reasons for being at sea.

"He assured us he would not be going back out again.

"We gave safety advice to that effect and wished him well for the future."