THE RNLI has warned beach-goers going into the sea to take caution at this time of year - following the rescue of a teenager in Dorset.

The warning comes after the lifeboat crew answered a call around 3pm on Thursday following the rescue of a 19-year-old man in difficulties in the sea off Abbotsbury.

A coastguard helicopter arrived at the scene just before the lifeboat and the man was winched to safety and taken to Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester.

A RNLI spokeswoman: "We encourage anyone going in the water at this time of year to always check the weather forecast, including tide information and wave height.

"Stay in your depth and always go with someone else to a familiar spot. If you or someone else is in trouble call 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

A member of the West Bay Coastguard said the conditions on Thursday were 'unfavourable and rough', and it was 'surprising' to see a swimmer out in those conditions.

For more safety advice visit www.rnli.org/safety/choose-your-activity/open-water-swimming