COASTGUARD and lifeboat crews were called out to rescue a kitesurfer in difficulty near Boscombe Pier this morning.

The kitesurfer reportedly had part of their equipment entangled in a buoy and was also trying to retrieve their board. He was seen drifting in the water, prompting multiple emergency calls to the coastguard.

A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) said: “It was reported the kitesurfer was in difficulty in the water west of Boscombe Pier.

“We sent the Mudeford RNLI lifeboat and the Coastguard Rescue Team from Southbourne.

“The kitesurfer came safely back to shore and was able to retrieve their board.

“They received some safety advice from the team, particularly as Storm Doris is making an entrance today.”

A Dorset Police spokesperson added they had received a call of a concern for welfare report at 10.17am.

“The kitesurfer was in trouble so we liaised with the coastguard. The RNLI attended and he made his way back to shore.”