A MAN was pulled to safety after a coastguard helicopter was called to search the Southampton coast line.

The helicopter, along with a lifeboat and a shore-based team, were deployed after reports of a man in the River Test, just off Redbridge at around 9.30pm on Sunday evening.

A number of readers contacted the Echo after they were woken by the "low-flying" helicopter, which reportedly searched the river between Southampton Docks and Totton. The helicopter left the scene at around midnight.

It is understood that police and ambulance services attended the incident.

Police confirmed that a 36-year-old man was pulled to safety before being taken to Southampton General Hospital. 

It is understood he did not suffer with any life-threatening injuries.