LIFEBOAT crews rescued three people from a vessel with engine failure while the nation celebrated the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Coastguard volunteers launched from Littlehampton at around 11.30am on Friday to help those stranded on a stricken fishing craft.

When the lifeboat arrived on the scene, the crew quickly discovered that all three occupants of the 23-foot long craft were well and not in need of medical attention.

By midday, a tow had been established, returning the vessel to its mooring in Littlehampton harbour.

Michael Kelly, deputy launch authority for the incident, said: “Although the sea conditions were good, mechanical failure can turn a pleasant day of fishing at sea into a perilous situation.

“The casualty vessel was able to alert the Coastguard of their difficulties using a mobile phone, by calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard, and our volunteer crews were then able to assist.

“It is important to remember though that mobile coverage may be erratic offshore and having a working VHF radio with knowledge of how to use it in an emergency situation is recommended.”