A FIRST fishing trip of the year was cut short for two anglers, who needed rescued by Dunbar's RNLI crew earlier today (Saturday).

UK Coastguard called on the town's inshore lifeboat (ILB) at 9.30am after the crew of 'Gone Fishin' phoned for help when they were left stranded after engine failure a mile north of Barns Ness.

The two friends, from Penicuik, had set out shortly before 7am for a day’s fishing.

The ILB launched a few minutes after the call came in and volunteers were on scene at 10am.

After setting up a tow and supplying the anglers with buoyancy aids, the ILB crew towed the vessel back to Dunbar and guided it to a safe berth by 10.30am.

A spokesperson for the RNLI crew said: "The RNLI’s advice to users of small motor boats is to regularly maintain the engine and always carry lifejackets and a VHF radio and flares.

"If you see anyone in trouble on the water call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."