COASTGUARD teams were called out to Whitehaven after receiving a 999 call reporting a lifebuoy floating close to the shore.

Whitehaven Coastguard Rescue Team were called to North Shore, Whitehaven this morning, October 29 after receiving reports of the lifebuoy floating close to the shore.

In a statement, Whitehaven Coastguard Rescue Team said: "We were tasked this morning after a 999 call was received reporting a lifebuoy floating close to shore, at North Shore Whitehaven.

"With members of the team in the immediate area, and some on station supporting with equipment checks, the team were on scene almost immediately.

"We were already aware of a lifebuoy having became trapped on Whitey Rock in recent stormy weather. This was immediately confirmed to no longer be there.

"A hub search was conducted to ensure there was no further vessel flotsam or jetsam adrift or on the shore, and members of the public spoken with to obtain any further information.

"The lifebuoy was recovered by the team and identification markers showed it to belong to a large cargo ship which wasn't near the area. With this information and no one in distress, we were stood down.

"As always, our thanks must go to the first informant for raising the alarm, as well as the vessel for having ensured their equipment was marked with identification.

"In addition to onboard vessels, this type of lifesaving apparatus is commonly located around the coast by local landowners and authorities, for public access in an emergency. It could well have just been deployed to save someone, so raising the alarm early allowed investigation to be swiftly conducted and confirmation that no one was in danger."