A woman and her dog had to be rescued by the Coastguard after becoming cut off by the rising tide in thick fog.

Solent Coastguard received a 999 call just before 8am this morning from the woman's husband, reporting that his wife was cut off and in a distressed state on Appley Beach in Ryde, Isle of Wight.

The woman was contacted on her mobile phone but she was already up to her waist in the water and disorientated as to her precise whereabouts.

The Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team, trained in water rescue, and two boats from Ryde Inshore Rescue were sent to the scene.

A Coastguard spokeswoman said: ''Due to the foggy conditions, it wasn't clear exactly where the woman was.

''Rescuers had to shout to her to track her down, but she was eventually located. Both her and the dog were then recovered to the lifeboat before being passed into the care of paramedics.''

Karen Bosman, watch manager at Solent Coastguard, said: ''This woman told us she often takes her dog for a walk on the beach in this area, but this morning she was not aware of the rising spring tide. Combined with the foggy conditions, she ended up getting stuck up to her waist in the water.

''This must have been a terrifying ordeal and we're grateful that we managed to recover her in time. To avoid becoming stuck yourself, best to check the weather and tide times before you set out.

''Remember though, if you do get into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.''