A VAN has been saved from being swallowed by the sea in an early morning rescue.

This morning, in the early hours, coastguard officers were tasked to a van stuck in sand on Hillhead beach.

In what was described as "poor conditions" Hillhead Coastguard Rescue Team attempted to free the vehicle before it was swamped by the tide.

A recovery vehicle was eventually able to retrieve the vehicle for the "thankful" owner.

Hampshire Police also assisted the Coastguard with the incident.