TWO lifeboats and a coastguard crew raced to the rescue of an injured kneeboarder after a surfing trip went wrong.

Yesterday afternoon, two lifeboats from RNLI Swanage launched after a 'mayday' call was broadcast for the concern of an injured kneeboarder at the northern end of Swanage Bay.

The injured surfer was located near the water's edge.

A spokesman from RNLI Swanage Lifeboat, said: "Both of Swanage’s lifeboats were tasked yesterday afternoon along with Swanage & St Albans Coastguard and SW Ambulance.

"A boat had broadcast a ‘mayday’ at the northern end of Swanage Bay after one of its crew was injured, while being towed behind the boat on a kneeboard.

"The casualty was at the water’s edge but needed evacuation to an ambulance.

"The lifeboats launched and were soon on scene with the casualty and the coastguard.

The casualty was assessed and carefully put in to the lifeboat’s stretcher and then removed from the water.

"After discussion with the ambulance paramedic it was agreed to take the casualty back to the lifeboat station.

"The casualty was loaded on to the inshore lifeboat then transferred to the all-weather lifeboat.

"Once back to the jetty at Swanage Town Council's boat park, the casualty was handed over to the waiting paramedics."