A man was rescued off the coast of Sunderland after the railings on a stranded boat gave way and he fell into the sea.
Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team were initially called out to help a boat which had been experiencing steering problems just south of New South Pier at 2pm on Saturday (October 10).
A lifeboat was dispatched to the scene but as the tow was "being established" a man on the boat fell into the sea after a deck rail gave way.
The Coastguard said that 'thankfully' the man was wearing a life jacket and he was rescued by the lifeboat crew who then towed the boat back into port.
Following the incident, Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team emphasised the importance of wearing a life jacket and reminded boat owners to check the vessel's condition before travelling.
In a statement, the team said: "Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team was called to report of a pleasure boat experiencing steering problems just south of New South Pier.
"Coastguard Rescue Officers maintained visual watch on the vessel until the arrival of Sunderland RNLI Atlantic 85 lifeboat.
"As the tow was being established, a man overboard situation arose when a crewman fell into the sea from the pleasure boat after a deck rail gave way.
"Wisely, he had been wearing a lifejacket and was quickly recovered by the lifeboat crew, being landed at their station where he was given dry clothing and warmed up. No medical treatment was required.
"Sunderland RNLI D class inshore lifeboat then towed the pleasure boat back into port.
"This was an excellent example of how wearing a lifejacket can help save lives.
"Boat owners should also consider the mechanical and structural condition of their craft before proceeding to sea and advise Humber Coastguard of passage plans, especially if a lengthy voyage is anticipated."
