Two lifeboats were called out to help a yacht in difficulty after its propeller became caught in a buoy off South Stack.

Two people were on board the 35ft vessel which sent out a Pan-Pan signal at just after 8pm last Tuesday evening.

The RNLI's all-weather lifeboat from Holyhead went to the scene, around 12 nautical miles off Holy Island, but was unable to make direct contact with the yacht, which had broken free of the buoy.

It was starting to make "very slow headway" but was struggling against the strong tides and with only limited steering.

When communications was finally established, the yacht's crew were said to be tired and not confident about making their own way, so a tow to Holyhead harbour was established.

As it reached South Stack, one of the yacht's crew fell ill and was receiving medication for a pre-existing medical condition.

The inshore lifeboat from Holyhead was called out at just after midnight to meet the casaulty and help out with the tow to the casualty mooring, where final checks were made on the yacht crew.

Mark Wade, coxswain at RNLI Holyhead, said: "Apart from the fouled propeller, the yacht was in good condition and the sailors were well-equipped."

"They did the right thing issuing a call for help. The weather and tides were quite challenging, and the two sailors were very grateful for our assistance."

"Well done once again to the crew of volunteers, who, as ever, turned out despite the hour, to help others in trouble. We’d also like to express thanks to another local vessel, that had initially attended the casualty vessel after the Pan-Pan was issued, but was unable to help due to the conditions."