Brave volunteers from the Largs RNLI boarded a 27-foot yacht off Cumbrae after it lost its rudder and steering.

On Wednesday 20 July the crew were paged by UK Coastguard at 1:23pm to assist a yacht which was experiencing mechanical difficulties.

The service’s R.A. Wilson lifeboat raced to the scene on the west side of Cumbrae to the yacht in distress with three people on board.

On arrival at the scene a crew member from Largs RNLI was put on board the yacht to assess the situation.

It was discovered that the vessel had no steering, due to the loss of the rudder, so the decision was made to tow it to the nearest safe location at Largs Yacht Haven.

At Largs Yacht Haven the vessel was handed over into the care of volunteers from the Largs Coastguard Rescue Team.

The lifeboat then returned to the lifeboat station where it was cleaned, refuelled and made ready for service.

Dave Hewitt, Helm at Largs RNLI, has given a warning to always be prepared for every situation when out on the water

He said: “Given the recent good weather, there are a lot more people around and on the water in the area.

“Remember to respect the water; always carry a means of calling for help, wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid and remember to check both the weather and tide times before setting off.

“In a coastal emergency, or if you see someone in trouble at sea, always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”