FIREFIGHTERS launched a rescue mission after a car was discoved submerged in a pond. 

Dorset Fire and Rescue Service was alerted just before 12.30pm to a vehicle submerged in water at Cole Wood, near Wool.

It was unknown at that time how the long the vehicle had been there and whether any persons were inside, the brigade said.

Two fire engines from Poole and Swanage fire stations were sent along with a specialist water rescue team from Poole fire station.

The car was said to be in 5ft of water.

Firefighters trained in water rescue went into the pond to check if there was anyone inside the car or in the water.

A brigade spokesman said: “A full search confirmed that there were no persons trapped.”

The service said crews remained at the scene for a while to assist police with inquiries.

Dorset Police said the car, a Mazda convertible, is registered to a Bournemouth woman. It was recovered by 2.25pm.