LARGS lifeboat was called out twice to assist a 35-foot yacht after it ran aground in a notorious stretch of shallow waters.

The boat his difficulties to the south of the Hunterston Quay on Saturday just before 2pm, with initial reports suggesting people were in the water.

All six people on board were found to be safe after the RNLI rushed to the scene.

A bid to tow the vessel into deeper water was unsuccessful due to the onshore wind and falling tide.

UK Coastguard stood the lifeboat down at 3.40pm but just over two hours later they had to re-launch after winds reached 30 knots.

The lifeboat held the vessel in place until the tide had flooded enough for it to be towed into deeper water.

John Griffiths, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Largs RNLI, said, ‘We would remind anyone planning a trip to sea to always respect the water.

"It is important to check the local tide times and weather forecast, always carry a means of communication and wear a suitable lifejacket for your activity.

"In an emergency, or if you see someone in trouble at sea, you should dial 999 and ask for the coastguard."