Coastguard rescues 50 people from stricken passenger ferry off Scilly Isles

Search and rescue helicopters and RNLI lifeboats were called when the vessel reported it was taking on water

An aerial view of the Isles of Scilly, off the south-western coast of Great Britain (iStock)

Fifty people have been rescued off the coast of the Scilly Isles after the passenger boat they were on started taking on water.

Search and rescue helicopters and RNLI lifeboats were called just after 11.30am on Sunday when the vessel reported it was taking on water.

The 48 passengers and two crew were rescued and taken to safety, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said.

A salvage pump was put aboard the boat, which is being towed by the RNLI into St Mary's Harbour on the Scilly Isles.

Press Association