EMERGENCY services undertook a joint rescue operation yesterday after a man had 'difficulties' on Southbourne beach. 

Southboure Coastguard said that they were tasked at 3:47pm yesterday by the joint rescue coordination centre following "reports of a person in difficulties in the water".

A spokesperson said: "The exact location was unknown but on Southbourne beach.

"Once on scene we conducted a hasty search along the prom together with Poole Coastguard Rescue Team. RNLI Mudeford lifeboat conducted a seaward search parallel to the shore.

"Dorset Police were also on scene. Further information then came through that the casualty had been found inland and was safe in the company of the police and ambulance service. We then stood down and returned to the station."

A Dorest Police spokesperson said: "We received a report at 3.51pm on Thursday raising concern for the welfare of a man who was believed to be in the area of Southbourne Beach in Bournemouth.

"Officers attended and assisted the coastguard in carrying out a search of the area. It was further reported that the man was at an address in the town. He was located and given appropriate care."