Coastguards were called to assist an elderly woman who had fallen on the shore.

The Swanage Coastguard was called yesterday evening at 7.52pm. (July 31)

A spokesman for the service said: "With the inshore lifeboat (ILB) already afloat providing extra safety cover for Swanage Carnival’s sea swim, all calls came in from UK Coastguard.

"They were dealing with an incident where an elderly lady had fallen on the shore by The Haven Hotel at the entrance to Poole Harbour.

"The Coastguard unit on scene had requested assistance carrying the casualty to a point where she could be seen by ambulance personnel.

"The lifeboat headed to the area at best speed but as they rounded Old Harry rocks they were stood down as the people on scene had managed to move the lady.

"The ILB then returned to the swimming competition before rehousing."