A LIFEBOAT was launched after an emergency call from a boat off the Dorset coat.

The crew was mobilised after coastguards received a call on Saturday afternoon stating that a crewman had been injured on board the tug.

A spokesman for Swanage Lifeboat said: "Swanage’s Shannon class lifeboat was launched after the UK Coastguard were informed of an accident on board a working tugboat on passage between Southampton and Weymouth.

"One member of the crew had suffered a hand injury and required evacuation, so the lifeboat launched and made best speed to the tug’s position, only a few miles southeast of Durlston Head.

"On arrival, casualty carers found the injured crew had already received attention, so a transfer to the lifeboat followed – only 17 minutes after launch.

"The UK Coastguard arranged for an ambulance to rendezvous at Swanage boathouse, and shortly after 2.15pm the casualty was handed over to waiting paramedics, following which the lifeboat was washed down and made ready for further service."