Reports of an out of date pyrotechnic found on Charmouth Beach sparked an alert.

Coastguards from Lyme Regis were called to Charmouth Beach at around 12.30pm on Friday, January 26.

Pyrotechnics have a limited period in which they can be safely and effectively used.

Over time the materials making them up can deteriorate and cause the device to either fail to work or present a risk to those around it.

A spokesperson for the British Sub-Aqua Club said:  "Out-of-date pyrotechnics should be properly disposed of and should not be used either as a backup or as a form of firework."

Guidance issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) highlights the risks and safeguards surrounding the use and disposal of Time Expired Pyrotechnics (TEP).

The MCA said due to the "potential instability of the equipment", damaged or out-of-date pyrotechnics should not be used.

The MCA said: "Pyrotechnics must be treated as hazardous waste and should be disposed of responsibly in accordance with regulations and local rules."

The coastguard team from Lyme Regis was re-tasked to another incident before arrival.

This was to assist colleagues with a person stuck in the mud in Exmouth, east Devon. On arrival, the casualty was being rescued by firefighters.