TWO people had to be rescued from a boat on the River Weaver early this morning.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, along with Cheshire Police and a rescue boat, were called to the Weaver Shipyard near Saxon Lane just after 7am following reports of boats listing.

A total of 34 boats were searched, with two people rescued and other residents having to move to the dock side. Five fire engines were in attendance.

Cheshire Fire reported that no boats were submerged, but some boats were listing from side to side and others front to back, with a rescue boat from Warrington on standby but not used.

Station manager Steve McCormick said: "I would like to thank all the boat owners for their patience and assistance at this incident. We were able to account for everyone on board the boats and this was thanks to their support."