A MULTI-agency operation was launched to rescue an injured woman after she took a tumble on Brean Beach on New Year's Day.

Burnham-on-Sea RNLI and Burnham Coastguard Rescue team were rushed to the beach at around midday on January 1 to help the woman who had fallen to the floor after her dog accidentally knocked her over.

A spokesman for Burnham Coastguard, said: "With a fairly close tide it was important we got there in good time to ensure there was no danger of the situation becoming even worse.

"Once we arrived at Brean Beach we assessed the lady, she had taken a tumble and heard a loud 'crack' followed by a lot of pain.

"She and some fellow dog walkers were out enjoying the mild start to the year when her dog who was seemingly having a whale of a time accidentally bowled her over.

"The group immediately went to assist and realising she was in a lot of pain called for an ambulance from South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust

"While we were travelling to scene a friend had helped her into their van where she was kept comfortable, once our team had assessed her she was helped into one of the seats so she could be transported to Weston Area Health NHS Trust.

"It was one of those unfortunate events that happen, and we wish the lady a speedy recovery, sure the dog is also very sorry for the over-enthusiastic playtime accident too."

Burnham RNLI was also called to the incident due to the high tide but they were stood down.

If you see anyone in danger along the coast call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.