RNLI crew members were thrilled to be joined by dolphins when they went to the aid of a stricken fishing boat.

The volunteer crew of Swanage Lifeboat Station was launched at around midday on Tuesday to reports that a fishing vessel was drifting nearly four nautical miles north east of Old harry Rocks.

The boat's propeller had become caught in lines.

A spokesman said: "The fishing vessel was quickly found and the two crew onboard were happy to take a line and be towed to safety. Once the vessel was under tow towards Poole Harbour it became apparent that the tangled line and fishing gear over the side of the vessel was making towing difficult. Slow progress was made, and whilst underway a pod of dolphins joined the tow."

Two-and-a-half hours later the Swanage lifeboat arrived at Poole Quay and the fishing vessel was secured alongside with help from Poole HM Coastguard volunteers.