A YACHT with three adults and a child onboard started taking on water on its way back to Poole.

Volunteers from the Poole RNLI Lifeboat station rushed to the assistance of the 60ft yacht on Saturday afternoon.

A spokesperson said: “Poole Lifeboats were requested to launch at 4.45pm, Saturday March 5 by the UK Coastguard to a report of a vessel taking on water.

“The 60ft yacht with three adults and a child onboard was making its way inbound to Poole, when it started to take on water.

“The lifeboats made good speed and were soon on scene in the swash channel, two crew were transferred across, to assess the situation and with the salvage pump, to try to stem the flow of the ingress.

“The salvage pump, alongside the yachts bilge pump, seemed to keep the ingress under control.

“As light was fading, the lifeboats escorted the vessel back through the harbour to Poole Quay Boat Haven.

“On arrival at Poole Quay Boat Haven, the marina staff attached their pump, there would be further investigation and a lift out for the vessel was to be arranged.

“As the yacht and the occupants were all safe alongside, the lifeboats were stood down with thanks, and returned to station.

“The lifeboat was ready for service 7.30pm.”