A PADDLE boarder was rescued by lifeboat crew after getting blown a mile from shore in strong winds.

Portland Coastguard was called and Weymouth RNLI inshore lifeboat was sent to help the stand-up paddle boarder off Bats Head, west of Lulworth Cove, yesterday morning.

The crew found the man, who had been swept away in unexpectedly strong winds, and brought him to safety.

Ken Francis, of Weymouth RNLI, said: “The paddle boarder had been blown more than a mile away from the shore and, due to the wind and wave conditions, was unable to make his way back to shore.

“After launching and proceeding to the area near to White Nothe the casualty was quickly located, taken aboard the lifeboat and returned safely to shore.”

A spokesman for Portland Coastguard said: “Weymouth RNLI inshore lifeboat was tasked to rescue a stand-up paddle boarder who had encountered unexpectedly strong winds.

“Another vessel, Pamela Jean, also offered assistance and proceeded. “The male boarder was taken on board the lifeboat and returned to Overcombe, Weymouth.”