MUDEFORD RNLI and the Coastguard rushed to help save a catamaran which was suffering engine failure off the Hengistbury Head. 

Tasked at around 5:40pm on August 6, Mudeford RNLI and the Coastguard were called to help rescue a catamaran suffering engine failure near Hengistbury Head which had one person onboard. 

On scene by 6pm, the RNLI lifeboat assisted the solo crew member on the boat and towed the vehicle to Poole before the crew returned to the Mudeford station at 8:25pm. 

Mudeford RNLI volunteer Launch Authority, Simon Challis, said: "The casualty vessel had been struggling with engine problems before being spotted by National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) at Hengistbury Head who raised the alarm.

"With their assistance, we were able to locate the casualty vessel quickly and with the light diminishing the decision was made to take the vessel to a place of safety overnight."

"This rescue is a great example of how the NCI and Mudeford RNLI work together to help keep people safe on the water."

Both the RNLI and the Coastguard were assisted by the National Coastguard Institute Hengistbury Head.

A spokesperson for the Coastguard said: "HM Coastguard coordinated the response to reports of a sailing vessel in difficulty off Southbourne beach at about 4.45pm on 6 August.

"The vessel, with one person on board, was assisted into Poole harbour by the RNLI's inshore lifeboat from Mudeford, with support from NCI Hengistbury Head."