A MAJOR search and rescue operation was launched after a woman was reported missing from the beach in Felixstowe – but the drama turned out to be a false alarm.

Coastguard and lifeboat teams scoured the coastline and the seas yesterday afternoon, while the search and rescue helicopter covered the area, after the woman was reported missing after leaving a beach hut and going for a swim.

The search was on the stretch of coast outside The Fludyers Arms in Undercliff Road.

A spokeswoman from Thames Coastguard said despite the thorough search “nothing has been found”.

She said: “The Felixstowe coastguard, Harwich inshore lifeboat and the search and rescue helicopter were called to the scene.

“We carried out a thorough search of the area but nothing has been found.

“If there had been somebody out there we would have found them.

“There was no trace of anyone’s possessions left on the beach and members of the public said it appeared the woman had turned up at the beach already dressed in swimwear.”

- Did you see the drama unfold? Do you know the woman in question? Call the newsdesk on 01473 324788 or e-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk