A WOMAN was rescued by coastguards after she dislocated her knee near West Bay.

Officers from West Bay Coast Guard Team were alerted at 5.55pm on Wednesday afternoon by Solent Coastguard of a woman who had suffered a dislocated knee.

The 53-year-old casualty was with her sister in between West Bay and Freshwater Beach, underneath the cliffs.

Officers from West Bay quickly responded to their station to gather their equipment and rescue vehicle, then headed to the end of East Pier where they were able to identify the casualties location through binoculars.

The rescue team then swiftly repositioned to Freshwater to gain access to the beach and rescue the woman.

A spokesman from West Bay Coastguard Team said: "The casualty was found to be in good spirits but needed assistance to get back to her vehicle in West Bay, so she could be driven by her sister to hospital.

"She reported that her knee had dislocated a number of times before and normally she could reposition it herself, but this time she was unsuccessful. The casualty was assisted from the beach by officers and reunited with her vehicle ready for her journey to Dorset County Hospital. The team was then stood down to return to station.

"Have a great time on the coast this Summer. But if you find yourself in difficulty, or if you see something that gives you cause for concern then do not hesitate. Dial 999 and ask for the coastguard."