A MAJOR emergency response is underway following reports a person was spotted in difficulty in the water in Newquay Bay.

The Coastguard helicopter, a Newquay lifeboat and members of Newquay Coastguard Search and Rescue Team have been scouring the Towan Beach and Newquay Harbour areas since 5pm.

The Coastguard helicopter has been circling the bay area using a light beam to illuminate parts of the water and beach. Police and ambulance are also in attendance.

A spokesperson for the HM Coastguard said: "HM Coastguard is responding to reports of a person possibly in difficulty in the water off Towan Beach today, 16 February.

"First informed at around 5pm, Newquay Coastguard Rescue Team, a lifeboat from Newquay RNLI and a coastguard helicopter have been sent to the scene."

Video by Sophie Tanith.