Dornoch-based inshore lifeboat called out after yacht loses power in Inver Bay

A RESCUE operation was launched after a small yacht was reported to have lost power in the sea off Portmahomack earlier today.

East Sutherland Rescue Association (ESRA) was tasked by coastguards to go to the aid of the yacht which was in Inver Bay.

The ESRA lifeboat Glen Cassley with three crew members aboard launched at 12.07pm - just 18 minutes after the 11.49am call-out.

ESRA spokesman Antony Hope said: “We endured a choppy motor across to Inver and navigated into the bay at one hour after high tide.

“We found the motor yacht dragging her anchor approximately 2km from Inver Community Centre with two people on board.

“Inver Bay dries at low tide, so time was of the essence in the rescue. We towed the yacht back into Inver and tied her to an anchor buoy - a member of the public helped us navigate into the shallow bay.

“Glen Cassley was back at Dornoch Station at 1.30pm, aided by a fast and choppy tide."

ESRA is an independent charity run by volunteers. It gets no funding from the government or any national organisation and depends on fundraising and donations. Donations can be made here.

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