A search has been launched for man who vanished while swimming in water off Bournemouth beach.

The coastguard helicopter has been spotted at the scene along with Dorset Police and the RNLI.

In a statement, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: "HM Coastguard is currently coordinating the search for a male, following a report of a person in the water at Bournemouth beach.

"The Poole and Southbourne Coastguard Rescue Teams, a Coastguard helicopter, Poole RNLI lifeboat and Dorset Police are currently on scene."

A search has been launched for man who vanished while swimming in water off Bournemouth beachPA

Emergency services received reports of a person in the sea near Bournemouth Pier.

RNLI jet skis and volunteers are searching along the seafront, it has been reported.

One witness said people are being asked to get out of the water.

It comes as temperatures surged to 28C in some parts of the UK - making it the hottest day of the year so far.