AN INFLATABLE unicorn drifting 400 metres off Bournemouth beach sparked an extensive search, amid concerns a child was in danger.

Poole RNLI lifeboat volunteers were asked to launch by UK coastguard at 3.45pm on Wednesday, April 1, after the inflatable was spotted off Middle Chine. They were informed a child may be with the inflatable.

A training lifeboat was also in the vicinity of Poole Bay at the time and responded.

As the Poole lifeboat headed through the harbour, news came through over the radio that the training lifeboat had located the inflatable and confirmed that there was no person on board at that time.

The training lifeboat began to conduct a search from where the inflatable had been located and worked on out from that position.

Meanwhile, the Poole lifeboat began a shoreline search, as they completed a length, they stepped back and began another length.

Coastguard teams from Poole, Southbourne and Swanage conducted an extensive search from the shore.

Poole RNLI volunteer helmsman Dave Riley said: "We couldn’t be certain that there had not been a person with the inflatable, so we had to conduct an extensive search.

"Inflatables can be great fun, but the lifeboats and lifeguards are being called out more and more to help people who get into difficulty and swept away with an inflatable, they really are best kept for use in a swimming pool."

After a thorough search by all assets the Poole lifeboat was stood down.

No child was reported missing.