A ferry that found itself broken down and adrift ended up being rescued by both of Falmouth's lifeboats.

The Inshore Lifeboat was already on the river attending another incident when they were informed, just after midday on Sunday, that a local ferry had issued a Pan broadcast.

The Flushing Ferry was reporting that its engine had failed and it was adrift, with one person onboard off Falmouth's Prince of Wales Pier.

The Inshore Lifeboat arrived on scene at 12.05pm and found that the ten-metre ferry had initially dropped its anchor, but this had dragged so the skipper had then managed to pick up a nearby mooring. However, he was concerned that this was not suitable for that size of vessel.

Given the rough sea conditions it was decided that the Inshore Lifeboat would standby the vessel while the All Weather Lifeboat was requested to launch to offer help, at 12.14pm.

Lifeboat crew members onboard the Flushing Ferry. Picture: RNLI

Lifeboat crew members onboard the Flushing Ferry. Picture: RNLI

The All Weather Lifeboat left its pontoon berth at 12.22pm and headed up the harbour, arriving on scene at 12.30pm.

Due to the shallow water the Inshore Lifeboat transferred a tow line from the All Weather Lifeboat to the ferry and at 12.35pm the vessel was towed clear of the moorings and out into the main channel.

The ferry was then towed to Flushing where it was safely placed on its mooring with the assistance of the Inshore Lifeboat at 12.50pm, with both lifeboats being released to return to station and ready for service again by 1.15pm.

The All weather lifeboat was crewed by Luke Wills (2nd Coxswain), Carl Beardmore, Dave Nicoll, Jonathan Hackwell, Jamie Connolly, Will Allen, Lloyd Barron, while the Inshore lifeboat had Neil Capper (Helmsman), Joe Amps and Cadan Harris as crew.