Selfless Lifeboat volunteers in Largs diverted from training to rescue three people following a steering issue.

On Sunday, September 17, the volunteers at Largs lifeboat were diverted from their planned training exercise to rescue a vessel with three people on board.

The vessel was reported to be in difficulty somewhere between Inverkip Marina and Colintraive by HM Coastguard. It was understood by the team that the boat had no VHF equipment on board and was relying on the use of mobile phones.

Largs RNLI inshore lifeboat ‘R A Wilson’ was quickly on the scene and began a search of the area.

The boat was found off Ardyne Point, where all three people aboard the vessel were safe and well.

It had been suffering from a steering cable issue which they were able to resolve themselves before getting back underway.

The lifeboat escorted the casualty vessel towards Inverkip Marina, where they were met by another vessel which escorted them back into the marina.

Angus Fergusson, volunteer helm at Largs lifeboat, said: "It is important to keep engines well-maintained and to regularly check equipment is fully functional.

"Always carry a means of communication such as a VHF radio or mobile phone in a waterproof pouch and let someone know where you are going and when you are due back.

"If you get into difficulty at sea or along the coast, or spot someone else in trouble, always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard."