LOOE lifeboat volunteers towed a disabled trawler to safety on Saturday.

The Looe trawler Paravel suffered engine problems fishing in Looe bay.

Looe RNLI launched the charity’s Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat to tow the disabled trawler safely back to her berth on East Looe Quay.

The trawler experienced intermittent problems with her engine fuel supply.

With a faltering engine, easterly force 5 winds and falling spring tide, the trawler slowly made her way back to port.

The trawler’s skipper telephoned Looe’s lifeboat operations manager Dave Haines asking for assistance as he was concerned about entering the harbour over the bar with a big swell and heavy sea running.

Dave made the decision not to summon the crew by pager because of the icy road conditions.

He said as there was no immediate risk to life he could alert the crew by telephoning around, allowing them time to make their way safely to the lifeboat station.

At 8.10 am shore crew tractor driver Del Palfrey launched the charity’s Atlantic 85 Sheila and Dennis Tongue II and the inshore lifeboat helmed by David Jackman made her way out into Looe bay.

Crew members Toby Bray, Matt Jaycock and Clive Palfrey quickly established a line with the trawler.