An "object" spotted floating out to sea turned out to be a kayaker desperately clinging to his vessel with severe hypothermia.

Mullion Coastguard Rescue Team was paged to Gunwalloe at 9.46am today.

A spokesperson said: "Once on scene the team set about trying to sight the object, which was reported to be around 1.5 miles off the coast.

"Having confirmed it was some sort of empty boat/solid object we requested Penlee Lifeboat to attend to investigate further.

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"After a brief search the lifeboat found a male clinging to an upturned kayak, which was camouflage in colour and half full of water, which he'd manage to secure to a crab pot to prevent drifting.

"Suffering from extreme hypothermia the casualty was brought in to Poldhu beach, where he was transferred to our coastguard helicopter and taken on for further care.

"The casualty was very lucky to have been seen and we wish him well with his recovery.

"Also many thanks to Poldhu Beach Cafe for the warming coffees for our crew."