Walmer RNLI and Dover Coastguard worked together to rescue a yacht in difficulty on Saturday, after the skipper’s radio failed to work.

The 43ft yacht ‘Muxicas’ had earlier sailed from Ramsgate before it found itself in danger one mile east of The Butts at Kingsdown.

The skipper realised he was in difficulty when he lost his steering and was unable to make way in the conditions.

After recognising his VHF radio was not in full working order he started to shout out for help.

The feint call was heard by Dover Coastguard who were able to request the launch of Walmer lifeboat.

The inshore lifeboat crew were paged at 12.05pm, quickly launching the Atlantic 85 lifeboat Donald McLauchlan.

They performed a search of the yacht’s expected location. On reaching it, lifeboat crew member Lee Waddon put another crew member aboard the yacht to assess the situation and assist with rigging tow lines.

The yacht had a damaged or fouled rudder making steering impossible, engine failure and a faulty VHF radio.

The yacht was taken under tow by the lifeboat and taken back towards Ramsgate Harbour where Ramsgate lifeboat was launched to assist.

Helmsman Andrew Coe said: “The good weather has encouraged more people out onto our coastal waters. Weather conditions can be unpredictable and it is essential that people take the necessary precautions to make sure they are safe.

"The skipper of the yacht had a life jacket and was wearing it, he also had a VHF radio but unfortunately it was not in full working order.

“As soon as the skipper knew he was in difficulty he made the right decision and called for help, luckily Dover Coastguard were able to pick up his call for assistance.”