A search and rescue operation was launched off the coast of Northumberland after coastguards received reports of a person falling into the sea.

Local lifeboat crews were joined by a helicopter from RAF Boulmer after the alarm was raised at 1920 BST on Tuesday.

Rescue teams searched the sea around Newbiggin, in Northumberland, after receiving reports that a person had fallen off the promenade.

The alarm was raised by a member of the public and the search lasted until 2130 BST, when it was called off for the night.

A spokesman for Humber Coastguard said a decision on whether the search resumed would depend on any missing person's report with the police.

He said the southerly wind, high tide and large swell made the search difficult.