THREE fishermen had to be rescued from the North Sea after their boat capsized.

Just before 2pm on Saturday, a 999 call was made by a fisherman on Roker Pier, Sunderland, reporting that a fishing boat was sinking and three crew were in trouble.

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

Three RNLI lifeboats from Sunderland and Tynemouth were launched with support from Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team.

Rescuers managed to locate the boat, which was sinking, and all three men were pulled out of the water onto Sunderland RNLI's Atlantic 85.

Dramatic video footage released by the RNLI shows the men clinging to the capsized boat and being dragged to safety from the water.

The Northern Echo:

They were given emergency care en route back to Sunderland Marina.

Once ashore the three men were assessed by paramedics before being taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital.

Following Saturday's rescue, RNLI volunteers issued a reminder to everyone about the importance of wearing a correctly fitting lifejacket.

A spokesperson said: "Every year, around 200 people drown in the coastal waters around the UK and Ireland.

"These tragedies happen to people taking part in a wide range of water-based and waterside activities.

"Research has proven that wearing a lifejacket can increase your chances of survival by up to four times if you’re immersed in cold water.

"Whatever your activity, wearing a well-fitted, well-maintained and suitable lifejacket or buoyancy aid could save your life."