A FERRY sailing from Poole to France yesterday morning changed course to assist another vessel in distress.

The captain of Brittany Ferries' Barfleur had received a Mayday radio message from a small yacht, which reported it was in danger of sinking.

Yesterday, a Brittany Ferries spokesman said: "During Barfleur's 8.30am sailing from Poole to Cherbourg this morning the ship's captain received a Mayday radio message from a vessel in distress and immediately diverted to assist.

"Ultimately Barfleur's help was not required as the coastguard helicopter arrived on scene first, and the vessel in distress was able to proceed to the port of Cherbourg under its own steam."

The ferry was soon back on course to Cherbourg and no-one was injured in the incident.