LIFEBOAT crews rescued four people after their yacht got into difficulties in high winds off the north Antrim coast yesterday evening.
Red Bay and Larne RNLI crews rescued the boat off Torr Head following a Mayday call at around 5.20pm.
The RNLI said the 32ft yacht was in danger of losing its mast and its sail was blowing out of control.
The yacht was travelling from Scotland to Bangor when it got into difficulty.
Members of the Red Bay lifeboat boarded the yacht and cut away the rigging to make the boat safe.
A Larne lifeboat crew also helped in the rescue mission.
The yacht was later escorted to Glenarm Marina.
Red Bay RNLI Helm Paddy McLaughlin said the strong winds and high seas had caused difficulties.
"This was a particularly challenging call out this evening given the weather conditions and the fact that the yacht’s sail was flapping so dangerously," he said.
"Thankfully, our crew who are highly trained and skilled were able to cut the rigging and make the yacht safe. The four people onboard the yacht are now returned to dry land where they are safe and well."
