A boat crew was rescued after being "in difficulty" along Chesil Beach. 

Volunteers from Weymouth lifeboat were called out to help boat crew after a vessel was reportedly in difficulty south of Portland Bill.

The  Weymouth Severn-class lifeboat, Ernest and Mabel, was launched and the boat was located further along Chesil. 

Once the lifeboat crew arrived at the boat, they checked to make sure that everybody was in good health before taking the boat under tow and bringing it safely into West Bay.

Weymouth Lifeboat Station received the callout at 5.35pm on Thursday, May 30 and has recently issued a statement about the incident as well as safety information for sailors.

A spokesperson for the station said: "Our volunteer crew aboard Ernest and Mabel launched in response to a coastguard request, following reports of a vessel in difficulty south of Portland Bill.

"The vessel was actually located further along Chesil, and after checking the welfare of occupants, who were all well, they were taken under tow into West Bay.

"The crew returned to station at 9.15pm after a long evening, where they all weather lifeboat was washed down and made ready.

"When the sun finally comes out and you think about taking your boat out, remember:

  • Always wear an appropriate lifejacket.

  • Always carry a means of calling and signalling for help.

  • Ensure there is an emergency action plan in place and everybody has an onboard briefing

  • Get the right level of training for your craft.

  • Ensure you have sufficient fuel for the passage you intend to take.

  • Always check the weather and tide times.

  • Make sure someone ashore knows where you are going and who to call if you don't return on time.

  • Always drive your boat at a speed that is appropriate to the weather conditions and to the environment you are operating in."