LIFEBOAT crews in Harwich were called to the aid of a broken down vessel as storm Angus approached the Essex coast.

Harwich RNLI’s all weather lifeboat was launched on Saturday evening to the vessel, which was thought to be in Harwich Harbour.

Daniel Sime, crew spokesman, said the vessel had left Shotley Marina a short time earlier with the intention of going to Ipswich.

He added: “With storm Angus approaching, there were concerns for the safety of the individuals on board the vessel when it was reported to have broken down.

“After an initial search of the harbour, information suggested that there was a radar target just inside the river Orwell.

“The lifeboat made its way to the position and located the vessel.

“A tow was established and the vessel was taken safely to Shotley Marina.”

The lifeboat had safely returned to the lifeboat station and was made ready for service by 12 midnight.