LIFEBOATS were launched today to help a stricken yacht stranded at the entrance to the River Deben.
The 16-metre Passo Da Onca ran aground on the treacherous sandbanks known as the bar at Felixstowe Ferry.
Both Harwich lifeboats were launched. The inshore lifeboat passed a tow onboard but was unable to pull the vessel clear of the banks.
A second tow was passed to the all weather lifeboat, which managed to free her from the sand bank with more power available.
The yacht was checked over for any damage and proceeded under her own steam into the River Orwell.
The incident happened at 9.40am and both Lifeboats returned to their station at 11.35am.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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 here