Penarth RNLI launched on 28 July at the request of Milford Haven Coastguards to assist a lone yachtsman who's vessel had steering/power problems.

Any dreams of an early night for Penarth's volunteer lifeboat crews were loudly shattered when pagers were activated at approximately 9.15pm

Using the station's larger Atlantic 85 lifeboat the volunteers quickly established a tow.

The yachtsman, who was not familiar with the area, was taken safely through the lock of Cardiff Bay barrage and onward to a safe mooring.

For many of the crew it was a case of 'late to bed and early to rise', as the volunteers left the station at 11:45pm ready for another working week.

Once inside the barrage the vessel was met by Penarth Coastguard Rescue Team who collected information and gave appropriate safety advice.

Later, on Facebook, the Penarth Coastguard Team recommended the RYA Safetrx application for these kind of incidents.

They cited multiple incidents where casualty vessels didn't know their position, or were unable to give any nearby landmarks which has resulted in us taking a little longer to locate, and assist them.

The post said: ''Using iPhone and Android smartphone tech this free app is easily accessible and ideal for everyone who enjoys being on the water – from Kite surfers and Kayakers to Dinghy sailors and Powerboat users.

''It's a great tool to quickly, and accurately find your position to pass to the Coastguard at a click of a button.

''The app has lots of other features, including being able to register your vessel which is easily searched by HM Coastguard should you get into trouble, it's really handy and could speed up the time it takes to assist you should you need it.''

Jason Dunlop, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Penarth said: 'We were happy to assist the lone sailor who had problems with his yacht.

''In darkness and with shallow water entering an unfamiliar dock would have been tricky, and we were glad to be able to ensure his safety.''