A SWIMMER, who was minutes ago spotted in difficulty while in the water off Budleigh Salterton beach, has been rescued by the coastguard helicopter.

A SWIMMER, who was minutes ago spotted in difficulty while in the water off Budleigh Salterton beach, has been rescued by the coastguard helicopter.

Exmouth coastguards have been on scene assisting the helicopter crew with their rescue mission.

Because of the urgency of the situation, the decision was taken to launch the helicopter and not Exmouth lifeboat.

No further details are known at this time.