Two divers have been fined by police after one them went missing during a leisure trip sparking a major search and rescue operation off the west Dorset coast.

The incident - which saw two lifeboats and two rescue helicopters respond - has prompted authorities to remind people every 999 call made puts frontline responders at risk and places extra pressure on the NHS.

The diver was reported as missing by his friend, who had also been diving from the same boat off Lyme Regis yesterday.

Coastguards were made aware of the incident in Lyme Bay at just after 3.20pm and a major search operation was mounted.

RNLI lifeboats from Lyme Regis and Exmouth were sent, along with the Lyme Regis coastguard rescue team and search and rescue helicopters from St Athan and Newquay. Other nearby vessels including HMS Tyne and two fishing vessels also assisted with the search.

HMS Tyne and a Coastguard helicopter Picture: RNLI

A spokesman for HM Coastguard said: "The diver, who had been diving without a buddy, was found safe and well by the lifeboat from Exmouth shortly after 5pm. He had surfaced safely but had lost sight of the dive vessel after his line became detached.

"Both of those onboard the boat had been diving as a leisure activity and were fined by police after being brought back to shore."

The spokesman added: "The Government has been clear that during this coronavirus pandemic we need to #StayHomeSaveLives. Leisure diving is not essential and every 999 call made could put our frontline responders at risk of #COVID-19 and places avoidable pressure on our vital NHS services.

"So please - stretch your legs but not our resources."