Lifeboats rescue stricken cargo ship

Lifeboats have helped rescue a 1,200-tonne cargo ship which broke down off the coast of Skye.

The 65-metre CEG universe was heading through the notorious Kylerhea Narrows between Skye and Glenelg when it became stuck with a broken rudder on Sunday morning.

The vessel, which was carrying a cargo of road salt to Gairloch, used its anchor to attempt to hold position against the strong eight-knot tide.

A lifeboat crew from Kyle of Lochalsh arrived shortly before 8am followed by the crew from Mallaig.

Andrew Macdonald, of the Kyle of Lochalsh lifeboat, said: “We weren’t far from the shore but with the power of bigger Mallaig lifeboat we were able to hold in position.

“It was thanks to the SD Kyle of the Lochalsh that we managed to get it out.”