SAILORS had to be rescued as their yacht was set to collide with a pier.

The 23ft yacht's engine failed, prompting the three sailors on board to call for help as they headed towards Worthing Pier battling fierce winds yesterday afternoon.

Shoreham lifeboat was launched at 1.10pm with the sailors unable to get the yacht's sails down, fearing they may crash into the pier.

The lifeboat crew used their inflatable Y boat to help take the sails down.

The yacht was towed back to Shoreham Harbour afterwards.

Shoreham inshore lifeboat was also launched at 4.50pm yesterday after a red flare was spotted at the River Adur, north of the Shoreham flyover.

The crew searched the river, but nothing was found.