Surfer dies in 'heavy waves'

The accident happened at a beach near Plymouth

A woman surfer has died after being knocked unconscious against rocks in heavy waves in Devon.

Her friend watched the tragedy but she could not reach the surfer despite desperate attempts.

Coastguards and police were called to the remote beach at Fort Bovisand, Plymouth, at 1845 BST on Saturday.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesman said the woman, in her 30s, was airlifted to hospital in Plymouth where she was pronounced dead.

He said: "Inquires into the exact circumstances of the death are continuing.

"It is believed she got into difficulties around a particularly rocky area of the coast in very heavy waves and she was washed against the rocks, possibly knocking her unconscious.

"Although her friend could see her she was unable to reach her."

The spokesman said the identity of the woman would not be released until later on Sunday.