Reports of a red flare illuminating the night sky off Sandown led to a search and rescue operation being launched overnight.
It was shortly before 01:00 that HM Coastguard received 999 calls reporting the sighting of a red flare – an international distress signal.
Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat was tasked to launch, with Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team also drafted in.
A search of Sandown Bay was conducted from both the sea and the shore, but nothing was located.
If you or someone else is in difficulty on the coast or at sea, or if you spot what you think may be unexploded ordnance, then dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Further safety information can be found at https://coastguardsafety.campaign.gov.uk/.
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what3words have divided the world into 3m squares and given each square a unique combination of three words, which means when you are in a remote area of the Isle of Wight you can get assistance much quicker without the need for local knowledge.
