Major rescue operation launched after red 'distress' flares seen off East Devon coast

Late last night the Coastguard, lifeboats and a search and rescue helicopter were sent to search Lyme Bay after reports of a red 'distress' flare being seen above the bay.

Beer Coastguard Rescue Team, Lyme Regis Coastguard, West Bay Coastguard, Lyme Lifeboat, Exmouth Lifeboat and the Coastguard rescue helicopter, rescue 187 from St Athan, were sent to the scene at around 11pm.

According to a spokesperson for Beer Coastguard Rescue Team: "Two flares were seen by a fishing vessel the first was reported in an area in the East of Lyme Bay, the second in an area between Sidmouth and Beer head.

"While the lifeboats and helicopter searched from the sea and air, we positioned team members at vantage points along the coast between Salcombe Hill and Beer Head.

"It was a very clear night, and a thorough search did not find anybody in difficulty and as no vessels were reported overdue, the search was stood down and we returned to station."