An unusual rescue operation saw Cowes Lifeboat assist a French yacht caught on the Isle of Wight’s floating bridge chain this morning (Sunday).

The 38-foot yacht’s prow, caught on a chain on the east side of the river, meant the floating bridge could have been out of action for some time because of the ebbing tide.

The lifeboat, which launched just after 6am, eventually carried out an alongside 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.

Also attending the incident were coastguards from Bembridge and Ventnor, and a Cowes Harbour Commission launch.