A DOG had to be rescued yesterday after falling into a river.

Coastguard teams were called out at 11.44am yesterday morning to rescue a bull terrier dog who was trapped in the River Char.

The dog, named 'Prudence', had fallen down a steep bank with very thick undergrowth and into the river when the owner called the coastguard for help.

Coastguard teams from Lyme Regis and West Bay were only able to reach Prudence from the other side of the river. She was safely recovered and taken back to the riverbank by the teams and reunited with her owner.

A spokesman for Lyme Regis Coastguard said: "We would encourage any dog owners whose animal gets into trouble, to call the coastguard rather than get in harm’s way.

"Remember, for any emergencies on the cliffs, beach, sea or tidal river, call 999 and ask for the coastguard."