LIFEBOAT volunteers in Burnham were called out to rescue three men when their boat broke down.

Ian Dowden, an experienced sailor, had taken two friends out on his boat’s maiden voyage on Thursday evening.

When the boat failed he was aware that the tide was going out and did not hesitate to call 999 and ask for the coastguard.

The powerboat with its passengers was quickly reached by the lifeboat and brought to shore.

Lifeboat operations manager Matt Davies said: “Due to good conditions we were able to get to their assistance quickly and bring them safely back to shore. They did exactly the right thing by calling 999.”

Mr Dowden said: “It is slightly embarrassing having to call them on the maiden voyage.

“I would like to pass on my thanks to the lifeboat crew for everything that they did.

“This is not quite what I had in mind to celebrate my birthday today.