Lifeboats from both the Island and the mainland were called to assist a speedboat taking on water off The Needles this afternoon (Sunday).
Alerted at around 15:00, crews from Freshwater, Lymington and Mudeford made the trip to the West Wight and in particular the Scratchell’s Bay area, where the stricken vessel was located.
Island Echo understands the boat was taking on water and had numerous persons on board.
Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 175 was called to the scene however the helicopter was stood down en-route and returned to a search off Portland.
Having transferred the casualties, a tow was carried out to take the vessel back to dry land.
All lifeboats have now stood down and have returned to their respective stations.
Surly Yarmouth lifeboat should have been sent to a sinking boat by the needles!
Seems everyone else went !