British yachtsman lifted to safety from Pacific reef

A British sailor whose yacht was beached on a reef off a remote South Pacific island was lifted to safety today by an Australian navy helicopter, maritime officials said.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority, which co-ordinated the rescue, said a navy Sea Hawk helicopter pulled the 55-year-old sailor, whose name and hometown were not immediately released, from the stricken amid gusty winds and a strong swell. He was not injured.