Historic sailing boat rescued in 10-hour operation

The vessel, Leader, requested urgent assistance to Falmouth coastguard

RNLI lifeboat crews from Padstow, Sennen Cove and Penlee were called on Wednesday night to reports of a 75ft (23m) sailing vessel taking on water.

The vessel, Leader, requested urgent assistance to Falmouth coastguard, 11 miles (18km) east of Trevose Head, and Padstow RNLI launched its all-weather lifeboat after 19:30 BST.

In an operation involving three lifeboats and lasting 10 hours, the volunteer crews brought the vessel and its crew of eight to safety.

Penlee lifeboat then escorted the Brixham trawler to Newlyn, the nearest safe harbour that could accommodate a boat of its size.

'Friendly and professional'

Peter Scallan of the Atlantic Youth Trust said: "Me and my colleagues would like to thank the RNLI for its attendance to Leader last night.

"The prompt response to the pagers, and the friendly and professional manner in which the crew dealt with the situation was very much appreciated.

"In particular, we would like to thank the two crew members who boarded Leader to assist with the pumping represented the best of the RNLI and were very supportive of the skipper, mate and crew of Leader."