THREE PEOPLE had to be rescued by the coastguard yesterday afternoon after being blown offshore.

Two children and an adult were on paddle boards at Ringstead Bay when changeable conditions created very strong offshore winds.

Wyke Coastguard Rescue Team, Lulworth Coastguard Rescue Team and Weymouth RNLI were called to the incident at 1.45pm.

An in-shore lifeboat was launched from Weymouth lifeboat station and made its way to the casualty location. They quickly made contact with the three individuals, recovered them, and confirmed they were safe and well.

The lifeboat then returned to the slipway at Ringstead Bay where they were “reunited with their incredible grateful family”

A spokesperson for Weymouth RNLI said: "The volunteer crew launched the Atlantic 85 at 1.45pm and went to the aid of two paddle boarders and a swimmer who had been blown out to sea on a 25mph offshore wind from Ringstead Bay.

"The casualties were located about a half a mile from the shore and were pulled on board the lifeboat and returned to the beach where they were delivered into the care of their families and the coastguard."

A spokesperson for Wyke Regis Coastguard Rescue Team said: "The changeable conditions today created very strong offshore winds in the afternoon. 

“(This was) a very fortunate outcome and an excellent example of what you should do if you notice someone being blown offshore. Call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard - help will be sent.”