A MISSING Lyme Regis yacht has been found drifting empty 30 miles off the Cornish coast.
The 22ft Rhian vanished from her moorings outside the harbour some two weeks ago, sparking a maritime mystery.
She had been securely chained and shackled to a buoy.The same night a dinghy also disappeared from the resort.It was found two days later drifting 10 miles off Sidmouth.
Lyme Regis harbourmaster Mike Poupard said the Rhian, owned by local man Gerry Hadfield, was normally moored at Axmouth harbour but he had brought her to the Cobb ready for a trip the next day.
"It is impossible to say how she got loose - whether someone took her for a joyride or just let her loose for a prank," he said.
Mr Poupard said the Rhian was found drifting off The Lizard by the crew of the fishing vessel Carol H.
They towed her into Newlyn Harbour, where insurance officials are now assessing their claim for salvage dues.
It is understood the yacht was not badly damaged.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article