EMERGENCY services rushed to Sandbanks yesterday after two people almost drowned in the sea.

Poole Coastguard Rescue Team were called to the beach at 12.15pm on Friday after two people were rescued by members of the public.

The pair had become caught in deep water caused by a rip current of the rock groynes.

A passing member of the public and an off-duty police officer were able to rescue both of the casualties and called 999 to alert the emergency services.

Two South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust teams were first on scene, with both casualties in the ambulances by the time the Coastguard team arrived. They were both taken to hospital to have further checks.

In a post on Facebook, Poole Coast Guard Rescue Team warned of the dangers of rip currents and reminded beach-goers that lifeguards are not there at the moment due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The status said: "Please remember lifeguards aren't on the beaches at the moment. Your safety is still you responsibility.

"If you are caught in a rip current, stay calm and don't fight the current.

"Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current.

"Once you are free, turn and swim toward shore.

"If you can't swim to the shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore."

  • Do you know either of the people who carried out the rescue? We want to give them the credit they deserve. Email newsdesk@bournemouthecho.co.uk if you have any information that could assist us.