A RUSSIAN boat was boarded by coastguard officers who suspected its captain was drunk.
Russian skipper Vladimir Varypayev, 46, was seized by police when he sailed his unseaworthy ship into Blyth, Northumberland.
Police and coastguard officials boarded The Little Star, which was carrying animal feed, as her Russian crew of eight berthed.
The operation was carried out after a tug boat pilot said he suspected Capt Varypayev was drunk. The captain was breath-tested and taken to hospital.
Police are awaiting his discharge to continue their investigation. The Little Star will remain detained until several faults are put right.
The inspection found the crew were unable to seal the engine room and found problems with rescue equipment and several smaller matters.
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