A DRUNK person was rescued after swallowing half a litre of water a mile out to sea in Southend.

Southend coastguard were called at 7.20pm to reports of a missing swimmer east of the pier.

Southend RNLI were also called to assist as the coastguard team had been attending a separate incident.

When the coastguard arrived at the scene, it was confirmed that the RNLI had spotted and picked up a casualty in parallel to the end of Southend pier more than one mile out at sea.

The casualty was showing developing signs of hypothermia, mixed with the large amount of alcohol they had consumed.

They had also swallowed approximately half a litre of sea water.

The casualty was taken to Southend hospital for further treatment.

A spokesperson for Southend coastguard said: "Well done to all emergency services today for their quick response and for RNLI spotting and picking up the casualty before the situation worsened.

"We wish the casualty a quick and full recovery.

"Warning: Water and alcohol don’t mix, 1 in 8 coastal deaths involves alcohol, please don't end up being another statistic.

"Should you see anyone in trouble on or near the coast, don’t hesitate to dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard, you could save someone’s life."