Exmouth RNLI was called out last night to Topsham after reports of a person in the water.

At around 6.50pm on March 21, H.M. Coastguard requested the launch of the RNLI Exmouth lifeboat to the report of a 35 foot yacht aground near Topsham and an individual from this yacht who had fallen into the water.

The inshore lifeboat, D-805 George Bearman II and three volunteer crew launched at around 7pm and made best speed to Topsham.

A spokesman for Exmouth RNLI said: "Upon arriving at the vessel the crew were quickly able to establish contact with the yachtsman and confirm that he had self recovered from the water and was comfortable staying onboard until it could be refloated on the next suitable tide.

"Satisfied there was no further risk to the individual, H.M. Coastguard stood down the volunteer crew and they returned to station at 20.05 and made the lifeboat ready again for service."