Storm Gareth also ran wild over the water.

Strong winds played havoc with at least three boats moored at Lower Halstow Yacht Club at the weekend.

One boat, already out of the water for maintenance, was blown off its stand and into a second. A third was blown over on its mooring, partially sinking it.

Rear Commodore David Metcalfe said: "The boat in the picture was blown over, complete with its cradle, hitting the vessel next to it and snapping its mast.

"There is also possible damage to the keel's mountings because of the strange way it landed.

"The boat next to it suffered minor damage to its toe rail and safety lines.

"Out on the creek, another small Shipmate cruiser was blown over onto its side while on its mooring and filled up with water as the tide returned."

He said: "Its mast seemed to have stuck in the mud preventing it from righting itself. The owner unsuccessfully tried to right it on Monday and was going to attempt to get out across the mud on Tuesday."

He added: "The continuing bad weather is hampering recovery."