RESCUE services were mobilised after a group of West Devon Explorer Scouts got into difficulty on a kayaking trip on the River Tamar on Friday evening. The alarm was raised by a member of the public after the engine cut out on a safety boat which was towing the scouts' kayaks. The group had been on a camping trip to Cotehele Quay at the time. The rescue mission was organised by Brixham Coastguard and involved an RAF helicopter, lifeboat crews and an MoD launch. A spokesperson for the Scout Organisation said no-one was injured and it was not aware of anyone entering the water. 'The incident involved a safety boat supporting a group of youth members aged 14 to 18 years old and their leader, taking part in a planned activity,' he said. 'The activity began at approximately 6.30pm. 'The safety boat had unspecified engine difficulties and required support from the Coastguard and associated rescue services. The adult leader and five explorer scouts continued on their way to their planned destination and arrived safely.' He said the association would be investigating the issues in due course. Mark Clark from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: 'We would strongly advise any recreational groups intending to embark on waterborne leisure activities to inform the Coastguard of their intentions so that we are aware of their location and party numbers should they require assistance of any kind.' He added if anyone was setting out on any kind of maritime leisure activity they should always ensure they are carrying appropriate safety equipment, including VHF radio and lifejackets.