A WOMAN has died after falling into the sea.

The woman was recovered from the water at Mudeford Quay but died in hospital.

Police launched a major operation last night after a member of the public reported her daughter had got out of her car and she could not find her.

A number of police units at the scene carried out a search of the quay and surrounding area.

The police helicopter was also launched, with RNL crews and the coastguard tasked to search the water for the missing woman.

Members of the Dorset Search and Rescue volunteer group were also called to help with the search.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said they were called at 8.10pm after concerns a 43-year-old local woman had entered the sea at Mudeford Quay.

The spokesperson said following a large scale search for the woman, the RNLI recovered a body from the sea within Christchurch Harbour around 10pm.

 "The lifeboat crew commenced CPR and subsequent efforts by emergency services and hospital staff were unable to save the lady, who was pronounced dead at 1.40am", he added.

Next of kin are aware and the coroner has been informed.