TWO people who were in the water off the coast of North Berwick after their dinghy capsized were rescued by the coastguard, with a rescue helicopter also called.

At about 1.55pm yesterday afternoon (Wednesday), two people ended up in the water between the Bass Rock and Cardinal Point.

They were sailing in their dinghy when it capsized while they were returning to the town.

After multiple attempts to recover themselves failed, they then called 999 for help.

North Berwick and Dunbar coastguard teams were called to the scene, as was the coastguard rescue helicopter and North Berwick’s RNLI lifeboat crew.

The lifeboat volunteers, rescue helicopter and vessel Thalassa of BlueWild Boats, which provides nature boat tours to the Bass Rock and the Isle of May, all helped locate the two people in the water.

The skipper of the boat tours vessel transferred the casualties to the waiting coastguard officers and RNLI shore crew, who provided casualty care until an ambulance arrived for further assessment.

The lifeboat crew on the water then recovered the dinghy and brought it back to North Berwick.

A spokesperson for North Berwick Coastguard Rescue Team said: “Remember, if you see someone or something you are concerned about on the shoreline, cliffs, mud or water, dial 999 and ask for the coastguard. If in doubt, call!

“There is an alternative contact number for the Coastguard, 01224 592334 where you can pass information.”

A spokesperson for BlueWild Boats said: “Well done to the RNLI and coastguard teams for superbly co-ordinated and calm teamwork. Delighted that the sailors are safe and well. Pleased we could help.”