Residents in Southampton saw a Coastguard helicopter shining a spotlight over the docks last night.

Those living near Mayflower Park in Southampton reported hearing a helicopter at around 10pm on Sunday.

One witness said they saw it hovering over the Dock Gate 4 area.

HM Coastguard have now revealed why the helicopter was flying near the water at the edge of the city and stated that it was responding to reports of a "person possibly in the water at Town Quay".

Lifeboat crews from Calshot were also called.

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A Coastguard spokesperson said: “No indications were found of anyone in distress when HM Coastguard responded to a report of a person possibly in the water at Town Quay, Southampton, at about 9.35pm on 4 August.

“A thorough search was carried out by an HM Coastguard helicopter, Coastguard Rescue Teams from Hillhead and Lymington, and the RNLI's two inshore lifeboats from Calshot.

“South Central Ambulance Service was informed.”