A SURFER has been found dead in the water off the Dorset coast.

The coastguard at Portland said the man's body was spotted floating in the water in Kimmeridge Bay by a passer-by at around 2.15pm on Thursday.

A spokesman said: "Due to the sea conditions we think he may have been in the water since yesterday because there was no surf today."

He said the death appeared to be accidental and the man was still attached to his surfboard when found.

The coastguard helicopter was sent to the scene and the surfer was confirmed dead by the crew.

His body was recovered and taken to the shore.

The incident is now being dealt with by the police.