Yacht stuck on floating bridge chain triggers rescue operation

An unusual rescue operation saw the Cowes Lifeboat rescue a French yacht stuck on the chain of the Isle of Wight Floating Bridge this morning (Sunday).

The bow of the 38-foot yacht, hanging on a chain on the east bank of the river, meant the floating bridge could have been out of action for some time due to the falling tide.

The lifeboat, launched shortly after 6am, eventually carried out a side tow to carefully free the yacht and its crew of three.

It was taken to Shepards Marina to have its hull inspected for possible damage.

Bembridge and Ventnor Coastguards, along with a Cowes Harbour Commission patrol boat, were also present at the incident.