THE coastguard have rushed to the rescue of a yacht which lost its mast in waters off Greenock's Esplanade this afternoon.

Several emergency vessels and vehicles converged on the area after the alarm was raised at around 3:20pm this afternoon. 

The RNLI's inshore lifeboat from Helensburgh was deployed alongside a coastguard rescue team from Greenock,

The lifeboat managed to reach the stricken vessel and support its return to shore. 

CalMac's AliCat ferry, which serves the Gourock to Dunoon route, was also spotted providing assistance at the scene. 

Greenock Telegraph:

An HM Coastguard spokesperson said: "HM Coastguard is coordinating the response to a report of a yacht losing its mast in waters off Gourock.

"The alarm was raised at about 3.20pm on 9 April.

"The RNLI's inshore lifeboat from Helensburgh has reached the yacht and is supporting its return to shore.

"A Coastguard Rescue Team from Greenock was also sent to help."