Members of the public feared three people had become cut off by the tide

Lyme Regis Lifeboat answered its first callout of the new year on Monday over concerns for three beach walkers, near Charmouth.

It was thought the trio may have been cut off by the tide and members of the public called the coastguards for help,

But the RNLI crew soon located the walkers by the sea and established they were not cut off. In conjunction with shore based members of the coastguard team it was agreed they were not at risk and no rescue was needed.

The Lyme Regis lifeboat Spirit of Loch Fyne and its four crew observed the individuals form the sea for a short while before returning to station.

Back on shore helm Tim Edwards said: “We saw them quite quickly as one of them was wearing an orange jacket. They were not in any distress or danger so we observed for a few minutes and were then stood down by the coastguard.

“A false alarm, but better safe than sorry and it’s good that people make a call if they have concerns.

“Clearly no one was in danger but it serves as timely reminder for all that activities by the seashore can put you at risk very quickly. Anyone undertaking activities in or near the sea would be well served going to the RNLI online and reading their advice, especially the Respect The Water initiative that clearly identifies some of the risks.”