LIFEBOAT crews were called to the aid of a fishing boat in trouble three miles off Clacton.

Clacton RNLI’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat was launched to the aid of two people in the 21ft fishing vessel after it suffered engine failure at 2.10pm yesterday.

A spokesman for the crew said: “On arrival it was discovered the vessel was out of Wallasea Marina on the river Crouch.

“While the crew were setting up a tow another vessel, who was fishing in the same area, offered their assistance.

“As they were from the same marina the tow was handed over and our crew were stood down to return to station.

“We really appreciate the help from other vessels as it means our crew can return to station and prepare for the next shout much quicker.”

The volunteer crew included helmsman Tim Sutton and crewmen Richard Wigley and Aaron Free.