The crew of a lifeboat from the South is to receive one of the RNLI's highest awards, for a daring rescue earlier this year.

Lymington lifeboat was called out when a yacht with two people on board lost its mast during a gale in the Solent on 9 September.

Despite weather conditions barely within operating limits for the Atlantic lifeboat and almost zero visibility, the crew managed to get a man on board the stricken yacht and take her in tow.

The crew of the lifeboat showed great determination and teamwork to establish the tow Training Divisional Inspector David Shepherd

Helmsman Nicholas Hayward, 40, is to receive the RNLI's Thanks of the Institution on Vellum, while his crew, Barry Down, 40, Robin Mursell, 31, and Austin Honeysett, 28, will receive Chairman's Letters of Thanks.

The lifeboat was launched after another yacht reported that the seven-metre Piciess had lost her mast near the mouth of the Newtown River.

Training Divisional Inspector David Shepherd said: "This service was conducted in very difficult conditions.

"The crew of the lifeboat showed great determination and teamwork to establish the tow.

"Barry Down displayed real tenacity and stamina, and Helmsman Hayward displayed good seamanship skills and boat handling ability throughout the service."