The RNLI inshore lifeboat was launched from Cromer to help a fishing vessel off the Norfolk coast.
The coastguard said it received a distress call at around 7.30am today from the broken-down boat.
Audrey Smith, spokeswoman for the RNLI in Cromer, said: 'A request had come in from the Irene D, a local fishing boat, which had engine problems.
'Once the crew had been paged, the George and Muriel, Cromer's D class inshore lifeboat was launched. The crew were soon on scene just off East Runton and assistance was given to the fishermen. By 8.30am the inshore lifeboat had returned to its station.
'It was a significant occasion for RNLI Cromer as the inshore lifeboat had returned on March 6 after its maintenance checks. It was the first outing for the new tractor and also for Reis Khalil – who had recently finished his training to be a volunteer.'
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