AN unresponsive swimmer found on a Purbeck beach was airlifted to hospital on Saturday.

The casualty had been pulled from the water shortly before 1pm at Man O’ War beach near Durdle Door.

A member of the public called 999, and Coastguard rescue teams from Wyke and Lulworth attended as well as crews from the South Western Ambulance Service. 

Emergency treatment was administered and a statement issued by Wyke Coastguard confirmed that the person was breathing and responsive on their officers’ arrival.

“The initial response team arrived on scene at exactly the same time as the first South Western Ambulance Service response vehicle,” the statement said.

“The initial response team then spoke to the paramedic and assisted in carrying the emergency equipment to the scene.”

A call was then made for assistance from the Coastguard helicopter, which was on a training exercise in the area, with instructions to take the casualty directly to the Dorset County Hospital.

“Both Lulworth and Wyke team members then cleared the beach of numerous holidaymakers and onlookers,” the statement from Wyke Coastguard continued.

The patient was then airlifted to Dorchester Rugby Club’s ground before being transferred to hospital by land ambulance.