A motor cruiser with five people on board was forced to issue a Mayday call to report a suspected engine compartment fire while around two miles off the coast.

Margate's RNLI all-weather lifeboat assisted the motor cruiser after the alarm was raised just after noon yesterday.

The 10m motor cruiser on passage from Windsor to Ramsgate was about two miles north east of Margate and the distress call was picked up by UK Coastguard who immediately tasked Margate's RNLI all-weather lifeboat.

A nearby wind farm support vessel also responded to the Mayday call and stood by the disabled craft.

When the lifeboat arrived two crew members with fire extinguishers were put on board and established that the crew were safe and uninjured.

After isolating the boat's electrical system, careful examination showed there were no longer any signs of fire.

The vessel was taken in tow by the lifeboat to Ramsgate harbour when it was met by local coastguard officers and Kent Fire and Rescue Service who confirmed the situation was now resolved.

Ian Lowe, deputy launching authority Margate lifeboat, said: "Fortunately those on board were well prepared for any contingency.

"The quickly broadcast a Mayday call via marine VHF radio and all on board donned life jackets.

"The also avoided opening the engine compartment which could have reignited any fire that may have been present.