A yacht went up in flames a mile away from port with no way of sailing back.

The 30ft vessel caught fire off the coast of Brighton with its captain battling the flames to bring it under control.

Brighton lifeboat was called out just before 7.30pm on Thursday after the lone sailor called for help.

He was found in a "somewhat shell-shocked state", according to the volunteer RNLI crew. He got got the fire under control but the engine would not start.

A towing line was attached and the vessel was taken back to Brighton Marina where it was handed over to marina staff and the fire brigade.

Lifeboat helm Ben Hylands said: "Upon locating the vessel we were unable to make radio communication so assessed the scene with search lights before approaching cautiously alongside and making verbal contact.

‘We confirmed that the fire had been resolved and once we had passed the tow line made off and between considerable waves we made best speed to Brighton Marina where we berthed them safely to be met by the fire service."

The crew were stood down just under two hours after the initial call at 9.14pm.