RNLI issues sailing warning after yacht grounding

The yacht ran aground in Hartlepool after sailing in rough conditions

The RNLI has warned sailors to check weather conditions before sailing after a yacht ran aground.

Five people were aboard the vessel when it hit the coast at Hartlepool on Saturday.

Weather conditions at the time were described as rough with a force six easterly-south easterly wind.

Matt Blanchard, a lifeboat helm at the RNLI in Hartlepool, said: "Always check the weather forecast and sea conditions before you set off and be prepared to change your plans or cancel the trip if the forecast is unfavourable."

Humber Coastguard were called at 17:15 BST to reports a 33ft (10m) yacht had suffered engine failure and run aground near Newburn Bridge in Hartlepool.

The RNLI were paged at 17:20 BST and inshore lifeboat Solihull and all weather lifeboat Betty Huntbatch were dispatched.

The five people on board the yacht were able to make it to shore safely and were looked over by paramedics. No one was seriously hurt.

Mr Blanchard said: "With the occupants of the yacht safely ashore and the yacht partially submerged and not recoverable, the lifeboats returned to the Ferry Road lifeboat station."