Troon RNLI raced to help a stricken vessel which ran aground off Troon on Friday night.

At 6.53pm on Friday, September 6, Belfast Coastguard requested the launch of both Troon RNLI lifeboats following reports of a 42ft motor vessel with nine people on board aground outside the entrance to Troon harbour.

RNLI Trent class all-weather lifeboat ‘RNLB Jim Moffat’ and D Class inshore lifeboat ‘Sheena’ were soon heading out of the harbour towards the casualty vessel.

Also tasked was the Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team who were making their way to the scene to assist from the shore.

After leaving the harbour, the inshore lifeboat crew approached the casualty vessel and spoke with those onboard.

With the tide falling, the crew assisted with anchoring the casualty vessel before transferring the six adults and three children on board to the all-weather lifeboat and then onto the lifeboat station to the waiting coastguard team.

With the casualty vessel remaining on the rocks for recovery once arrangements were made by the owners, both lifeboats were made ready for service with the assistance of the shore crew.

Following the callout, Troon RNLI Lifeboat Coxswain Dale Caddis said: "We would like to take this opportunity to remind people to check weather and tide times before venturing out on the water, and the importance of checking local signage and navigation charts for dangers and hazards.

"If you get into difficulty at sea or along the coast, or spot someone else in trouble, always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard."