A Hampshire man is fighting for his life in Southampton hospital today after plunging off a pier into shallow water.
An investigation has been launched into whether the 20-year-old fell or jumped from the 30ft high pier.
Sunbathers and beach staff pulled him unconscious from the water which was just about three feet deep while emergency services arrived at the scene.
It comes as coastguards warned youngsters across the south about the dangers of "tombstoning".
The drama happened this afternoon at South Parade Pier in Southsea.
Paramedics put the man on a spinal board before he was transferred by helicopter to Southampton General Hospital.
The man, who has not been named, is understood to be suffering serious head and spine injuries.
Solent Coastguard today issued a warning to youngsters jumping off piers, rocks and bridges across Hampshire.
A spokesman said: "Every time they do it they put their lives and other people's lives in danger.
"They should think twice before they enter in to the act - I am sure there is an element of peer pressure but it is not clever to do it.
"The stark reminder is that it can end in paralysis or even death if they are unconscious in the water."
