A 'MISSING person' near Boscombe Pier sparked a major multi-agency search. 

Just before 7am on Saturday, February 3, a person reported seeing someone enter the water from the beach but had not seen them return.

Poole lifeboat volunteers were tasked, along with volunteers from Southbourne Coastguard and Poole Coastguard, to search between the piers initially.

An intensive search ensued and was extended further offshore.

The lifeboat Helm requested that the D class be deployed to help search as the area extended.

The police boat Buccaneer was also on the scene, concentrating searches underneath the piers.

As all assets continued scouring the area, news came through that after checking the CCTV, a person had been identified exiting the water safely.

Both lifeboats were stood down with thanks and returned to the station; after refuelling, a wash down and debriefing, the lifeboats were made ready for service just before 11am.

This was the fourth and fifth call-out for Poole Lifeboat volunteers this year.