A lifeboat crew has shared a plea to keep the slipway clear and avoid forming crowds when they head out on emergencies.

St Ives RNLI made the request following a launch on Saturday that saw large groups of people gather along the slipway to watch the lifeboat launch.

The volunteer crew said: "We really need you to help us keep our crew, you and your family safe this summer.

"We know many enjoy watching as the lifeboats launch either on service or exercise, but this summer we are asking people to please support the station by maintaining social distancing.

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"Current public health advice warns against large crowds so please be mindful of this."

Crews are currently operating under updated procedures, which includes wearing face masks and other PPE where necessary, to ensure their safety and help them remain on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the ongoing pandemic.

"Please show your support for them throughout these busy summer months by keeping a safe distance from others, and please do not form crowds around the station or slipway whilst our crews launch our lifeboats," added the RNLI.

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Pagers sounded at 1.11pm yesterday, when Falmouth Coastguard needed St Ives's all weather lifeboat to go to help a ketch - a two-masted sailing boat - in distress.

The volunteer crew were soon their way to the vessel, which was just to the west of Pendeen Lighthouse.

She was having engine issues that her crew onboard had been unable to resolve.

The lifeboat towed the ketch back to St Ives, where she was anchored in the bay and a mechanic was called for.