Yachtsmen in doubt about making a passage can now speak directly to a weather forecaster to help them make up their mind.

Calls to WCS Marine Weather cost pounds (sterling) 1.50p a minute on 09061 99 11 89 and forecasts are available for both the UK and Europee.

Managing director of the company, Simon Keeling, said: ‘Whether it’s professional or leisure sailing our forecasters can answer your questions and help plan ahead.’