TWO girls were airlifted to hospital after nearly drowning off a Hampshire beach today.

A member of the public saw the pair shouting for help in the sea off Lepe Beach near Calshot.

Four people swam out to help the stricken swimmers and helped them back to shore where the Calshot RNLI lifeboat and Southampton coastguard rescue team treated the swimmers.

One of the swimmers, a 13-year-old girl was unconscious and was taken by the coastguard rescue helicopter to Southampton General Hospital.

The second girl was transferred by air ambulance to Southampton General Hospital.

Solent Coastguard watch officer Garry Hall issued a warning to swimmers to be careful.

He said: “We want people to have fun and enjoy our coast but to do this we all need to respect the power of the sea and recognise that it's not like swimming in a pool. Powerful tides can pull you away from shore and mean that you are quickly out of your depth.”

“HM Coastguard recommends that, where possible, you swim between the flags on a beach with lifeguards. If you see anyone in danger or difficulties at the coast or in the sea, don't hesitate to call 999 and ask for the coastguard.”