RNLI volunteers were called into action just minutes after leaving this year's Durgan Regatta, after spotting a RIB with seven people aboard that had suffered engine failure.

Falmouth Inshore Lifeboat had just left the Helford River having attended the annual Durgan Regatta when at 18:31 on passing Rosemullion Head they came across the inflatable which had suffered engine failure.

A spokesman said: "The rigid inflatable, which had seven people on board, had been unable to restart its engine. Three of the adults and a child were transferred to the inshore lifeboat before a tow line was passed. The boat was towed to Falmouth where it was safely returned to its berth at Trevissome in the Penryn River at 20:10, the inshore lifeboat then being released to return to its station.

"The rigid inflatable had initially stopped when it ran out of fuel in its main tank. Its crew had then topped up the tank with additional fuel but unfortunately the engine would not restart."

The inshore lifeboat was back on its slipway by 20:25 where it was refuelled, rehoused and ready for service by 20:40.

Crew: Claire Angove (Helmsman), Adam West, Tom Telford
Location: Off Rosemullion Head
Weather: NNE 6, Moderate Sea and Slight Swell, Good Visibility, Partly Cloudy