A simple crossing of the Solent for a family lunch proved to be a voyage too far for one couple from Southampton today.

They had set out from Hamble with the intention of meeting up with their son for lunch at the Folly on the River Medina, between Cowes and Newport.

But while motoring past the Bramble Bank their yacht, the 29 foot Naviga, suffered engine failure.

To add to their frustration they were unable to hoist their mainsail, and the headsail proved inadequate for their boat to fight against the tide in the light easterly wind.

By the time the lifeboat reached the yacht it had drifted to off Egypt Point, Cowes.

After lifeboat crewman Stuart Higgs had gone aboard to attach a line the Naviga was towed to Cowes Yacht Haven where it was lifted on to the shore for repairs.

The lifeboat, helmed by Laurie O'Callaghan, was launched at 1.45 pm and was off-station for just over an hour.