A MAJOR operation was launched last night by emergency services after reports of concern for the welfare of a person in West Bay.

At 9pm, West Bay Coastguard Rescue Team were tasked by Solent Coastguard to search and help a person who was last seen in the West Bay area after alarms were raised by the public for their welfare.

The coastguard crew were joined by colleagues from Lyme Regis as well as the police and a specialised ambulance crew.

A spokesman from West Bay Coastguard Rescue Team said: "At 9pm, we were tasked by Solent Coastguard after a member of the public reported a concern for welfare of an individual in West Bay.

"The West Bay team were joined by our colleagues from the Lyme Regis Coastguard Rescue Team, Dorset Police, and the South Western Ambulance Service Hazardous Area Response Team (HART).

"The incident was safely concluded and the team returned to station at 12.45am.

"We wanted to thank the member of the public for reporting their concerns.

"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."