RNLI lifeguards rescued a 62-year-old man after his kayak capsized offshore.

The charity’s lifeguards spotted the kayaker in difficulty around 500m out to sea from South Shields Beach (Mowbray), at about 10.20am on Saturday.

It became apparent that the kayak’s bungs had become undone and water was quickly filling the vessel, causing it to capsize.

RNLI lifeguard Luke Dixon immediately swam out on a rescue board and requested the inshore rescue boat from nearby Sandhaven Beach, which was manned by Tom Spencer and Aaron Curle.

All three lifeguards reached the casualty within minutes and brought him back to shore in the rescue boat, where he received aftercare. Fortunately he was not seriously hurt.

RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor, Alex Richardson said: ‘The lifeguards did an incredible job and immediately took action when they noticed the kayaker was in danger and needed their help.

“Kayaking is one of the UK’s most popular water sports, but it is also classed as a high risk sport by the RNLI. We urge all kayakers, novice or seasoned professional, to always carry a means of calling for help and keep it within easy reach.

"We would also advise kayakers, and canoeists, to wear a flotation device, to let people know where you’re going and when you’ll be back, and to check the weather and tides before heading out."