AFTER a major operation saw the rescue of a teenager on Thursday afternoon from the sea off the coast of Abbotsbury, one bystander caught the dramatic scenes on his camera.

The video shows the moment the Coastguard helicopter winched the 19-year-old man to safety - safely landing on Chesil Beach.

Dorset Echo: The Coastguard helicopter taking off from the beach - heading towards DorchesterThe Coastguard helicopter taking off from the beach - heading towards Dorchester

He was then flown to Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester as he was in danger of suffering hypothermia, but it is understood he was not seriously hurt despite the ordeal.

Although sea swimming is allowed during the lockdown, it is warned the incident placed a huge demand on the emergency services at a time when they are stretched.

Read more: Swimmer rescued by Coastguard at Abbotsbury

Dorset Echo: Photo and video clips provide by Richard GriffithsPhoto and video clips provide by Richard Griffiths