LIFEBOATS were launched and the Coastguard helicopter scrambled to reports of kayakers in trouble off Purbeck.

Weymouth RNLI Inshore lifeboat was launched at 12.47pm on Wednesday to reports of an unknown number of kayakers in trouble at Stair Hole near Lulworth Cove

A spokesman for the lifeboat said: "Solent Coastguard had received a call from a third party reporting the incident. The information given was very sketchy as to location and numbers involved.

"With further information received mentioning multiple kayakers involved, the Coastguard launched Weymouth All-Weather lifeboat at 1pm and also the rescue helicopter from Lee on Solent."

Once the Inshore lifeboat was on scene, after a short search and questioning of other vessels in the area it was established that there were only two kayakers who had been in trouble and they were now safely aboard another vessel.

With the news that the kayakers were safe and the area searched for other possible casualty's all rescue assets were released and returned to station at 1.55pm. The lifeboats were then refuelled and made ready for the next shout.

Weymouth Lifeboats Operation Manager designate Nicky Ayling said: "The RNLI asks that if you see someone in trouble at the coast or at sea, that you should ring the Coastguard on 999 and pass as much information as possible. Including who or what is in trouble, the position of the incident and if known, how many persons/craft are involved."