A lifeboat has come to the rescue of a houseboat that had become stranded near Lowestoft. 

The vessel, a former tugboat, got into trouble after experiencing engine problems.

Volunteer lifeboat crews on the Pasty Knight sprang into action at 12.46pm on Saturday to aid the 78-foot-long boat. 

Lifeboat Coxswain John Fox said: “The crew on the ex-tug called HM Coastguard for help as they were experiencing engine problems.

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“We launched our all-weather lifeboat and when we reached the 78-foot-long vessel it was off Corton having spent a few days travelling from the Humber area.

“The former tug was a very heavy vessel believed to weigh 80 tonnes.

"We decided the best course of action was to tow the vessel back slowly, planning to arrive off Lowestoft Pier Head at slack water to allow the tide to get away – making manoeuvring the tug into the harbour entrance safer."

With help from a Coastguard Rescue Team, the houseboat was safely moored at the Yacht Marina at 4.30pm.