A coastguard helicopter and lifeboat crews were called to police incident near Totton on Wednesday night.

Residents near Totton and in western parts of Southampton reported seeing a search party with bright lights and torches in the marshland near the River Test.

HM Coastguard confirmed it was assisting officers from Hampshire Police, who were carrying out enquires in the area.

A helicopter was also used during the operation, with many residents spotting it as it flew above the area.

A spokesperson for the RNLI said: “Just after 7.30pm on April 17, HM Coastguard was asked to assist Hampshire Police with a report of an incident in Redbridge.

“Hill Head and Lymington Coastguard Rescue Teams, the RNLI lifeboat from Calshot, Hamble Independent Lifeboat and the Coastguard helicopter from Lee-On-Solent were sent.

“Nothing untoward was found.”

Hampshire Police has been unable to confirm to the Echo why it asked the RNLI to assist with the Redbridge incident.