BURNHAM-on-Sea RNLI and coastguard volunteers were called to reports of a 'suspicious object' that had been spotted floating towards the mouth of the River Brue.

Two lifeboats launched from Burnham-on-Sea Sailing Club at 7.45pm on Thursday (May 17) and the town's coastguard stood on the shore and guided RNLI crews to the object.

Coastguard volunteers scoured the water from the seawall using binoculars and saw a large item floating with small bits of debris dotted around it.

RNLI crews then recovered the object. which was later identified as a large tree stump and returned to the shore.

A spokesman for Burnham Coastguard, said: "This was a good spot by the initial informant as it was entering the river mouth it could've become a danger to marine traffic causing an accident.

"Although no one was in danger this is just one of the things we do as coastguards.

"Utilising assets such as the lifeboats is all part of the job and their highly trained crews are always ready for the call.

"It is great to work with the team in a combined agency call out."

Lifeboat Operations Manager Matt Davies said: ‘This was a false alarm with good intent.

"I would encourage anybody who sees something in the water they feel is of concern to call the Coastguard via 999."

If you see anything suspicious, or anyone in danger or difficulty along the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.