Portree RNLI was sent to assist. The closest vessel, the Nil Desperandum also went to help. Unfortunately at just before 4pm this vessel reported that it had also run aground while attempting the rescue.

After abandoning their vessels both crews were rescued from the shore by Portree Lifeboat and fishery protection vessel NORNA. They were taken to Dunvegan.

Murdo Macaulay, watch manager at Stornoway Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, said: 'The crews are both safe but unfortunately their vessels are still aground at the moment. There is no evidence of pollution from either vessel and plans are now being drawn-up to recover both vessels.

'This incident was created by an unfortunate sequence of events but thankfully the crews were wearing lifejackets and had life rafts to help them get ashore safely.'

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