Two lifeboatmen had to be rescued after being called to the aid of a yacht left stranded in the North Sea.
The Kirkwall and Stromness lifeboats were called out last night after the Globelle encountered problems in worsening weather conditions about a mile south-west of Stronsay.
Their 32ft sailing yacht had broken its forestay and the mast was left unsupported when they called for help at about 4.25pm.
The Kirkwall lifeboat was called out at 4.30pm, however whilst helping the yacht’s crew two crew members were thrown into the water.
They had been trying to reattach the line when the towline parted and they plunged into the sea.
The Stromness crew – called out at 8.45pm – were faced with south-easterly wind and rain showers but had good visibility.
Stronsay rescue The sailing yacht came into trouble near StronsayThe Sumburgh Coastguard search and rescue helicopter was called out to assist along with the additional lifeboat.
The pair were recovered soon afterwards and one an injured lifeboatmen was flown from Kirkwall on to Gilbert Bain Hospital in Lerwick.
His condition is unknown.
The yacht was towed in by the Kirkwall Lifeboat to the Orkney capital.
The Kirkwall vessel had the yacht in tow by 10pm.
As two lifeboats worked together to bring the yacht safely into Kirkwall Harbour.