Kitesurfer sparks big sea search

Emergency services were involved in a major search overnight after a kitesurfer was reported to be in difficulties off the coast of Devon.

Police were alerted when a number of people rang them at 2200 BST on Monday to report a kitesurfer in trouble.

A search was launched off the coast of Exmouth involving police, coastguards, lifeboats and a helicopter.

The hunt was only called off after the 42-year-old man from Feniton managed to make his own way ashore.

The man came ashore at about 0230 BST and contacted police.

He was taken to Exmouth Hospital for a precautionary check-up but later released.

Brixham coastguards said it was important people who did take to the sea late in the day were properly equipped and took suitable precautions such as warning the coastguard where they are going.