PORTLAND Coastguard was alerted to bulk carrier that encountered problems south of the island on its journey to Columbia.

Crew on the carrier Elvira Bulker reported a problem with the fuel lines on the main engine whilst approximately 20 miles south of Portland at around 8.45am yesterday.

The coastguard maintained a watching brief while the crew were able to effect repairs within an hour and get the vessel back underway.

Later that morning Portland Coastguard tasked local rescue officers after being informed of a drifting rowing boat off Budleigh Salterton in Devon.

The area was search but nothing was found.

The coastguard helicopter was also called into action to assist a light aircraft that issued a mayday broadcast near Branscombe in Devon.

The aircraft was able to land safely with no assistance required.