Burnham lifeboat launched this afternoon to help search for a missing yacht which was taking on water.
A Coastguard spokesman said: "The Burnham lifeboat was engaged to assist in the search for a vessel that was taking on water in the Gunfleet Sands area.
"The 27ft yacht, with three people on board, was was unsure of its position and it required assistance to make it to shore as there were concerns for its stability.
"The lifeboat commenced the search for the vessel before being released at 2.40pm, when it handed over the tasking to Southend Lifeboat as the vessel had moved so far south."
The Coastguard recommends water-users ensure they have accurate means of navigating or GPS on board, so they can give an accurate position to the service, if in trouble.
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