A MAJOR rescue operation was launched after reports of a person in trouble in the sea off Weymouth.

Weymouth inshore lifeboat was launched, Wyke Coastguards were mobilised and police and ambulance crews raced to the scene at 5pm yesterday (Tuesday, June 8).

A spokesman for Wyke Coastguard said: "The team was tasked just after 5pm to reports of a person in the water near the Rock Groyne at Greenhill.

"Weymouth Lifeboat ILB, Weymouth & Portland Police, RNLI Lifeguards Weymouth and West Dorset and South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust Trust also attended.

"After a short while, the casualty was taken into the care of paramedics."

A spokesman for RNLI said: "Weymouth RNLI Inshore lifeboat was launched at 5.10pm on Tuesday, June 8 to reports of someone in difficulties near to the groyne at Greenhill.

"On scene shortly after the crew found that a female who was up to neck level in the water was already being dealt with by RNLI lifeguards, Coastguards and the Police. 

"The lifeboat stood by as a safety measure until she was ashore and in the safe hands of Paramedics.

"The lifeboat returned to station at 6.20pm refuelled and made ready for the next shout."