COASTGUARD officials have launched a search after a dinghy was found drifting in the sea near Old Harry Rocks today.

Rescue teams have been called out after the discovery of the six-foot plastic rowing dinghy was made this morning.

It is not yet known if anyone has fallen into the water from the vessel.

However, a spokesperson from the Coastguard said: "At this time, we are looking for more information as to how this dinghy came to be where it was and if anyone has gone overboard.

"Coastguard rescue teams are involved in a search and the helicopter will make a sweep of the area."

The dinghy was launched from Swanage Sailing Club, which is based at Buck Shore, at some point after dusk on Saturday evening. 

A spokesperson from the Swanage RNLI said the inshore lifeboat team are involved in the search.

"The crew of a local fishing boat found a rowing dinghy drifting out to sea," the spokesperson said.

"The dinghy had been secured to a mooring by the crew of the fishing boat but the Coastguard was concerned that someone may have fallen out of it.

"The inshore lifeboat launched and was soon alongside the dinghy.

"There were oars on board and some other items that could have indicated that someone had been on board.

"The dinghy was towed ashore and a member of the Swanage Sailing Club said the dinghy was one of theirs and that it was usually stored with the oars inside."

Anyone with any information about this dinghy should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.​