RESCUERS called out to help a broken-down boat on Wednesday night found one lifejacket for four people, no navigation lights and "multiple waste alcohol containers" on board.

Falmouth Coastguard Rescue Team and Falmouth's RNLI were called at 9.38pm to the broken-down vessel close to Falmouth Watersports Centre.

A spokesperson for the team said: "On scene four persons were assisted ashore and words of advice passed. The vessel had suffered mechanical failure and was towed in by the inshore lifeboat.

"With one lifejacket between all on board and not being prepared for a late evening on the water including having no navigation lights, there were also multiple waste alcohol containers found within the vessel. With all this in mind, this incident could have turned out very differently."

The team took the opportunity to reiterate advice on taking to the water and visiting the coast after lockdown rules were eased slightly last week.

The spokesperson said: "In England, now more than ever, please respect the sea and the coast. Whether you’re local or not, whatever your ability or experience in your chosen sport or leisure activity, the sea can still catch you out and be unmerciful when it does.

"Beaches might not be lifeguarded. As always, if you get into trouble call 999 and ask for the Coastguard and we will come to your aid. But coronavirus hasn’t gone away and we all need to follow the rules.

"Remember your choices might put people, including yourself and front line responders, at risk. Take extra care in these extraordinary times."