Officers from Dorset Police were called to the scene shortly after 4.30pm on Wednesday (31 May) following a request from the ambulance service for assistance near Bournemouth Pier.

Ten people were recovered from the water, including a 17-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl, who had both sustained "critical injuries". Both later died in hospital. Their families have been informed.

The eight other people rescued from the water were treated by the ambulance service for non life-threatening injuries.

An investigation into the circumstances is under way involving Dorset Police, the Marine Accident Investigation Branch and Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

A man in his 40s, who was on the water at the time of the incident, has been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.

Detective Chief Superintendent, Neil Corrigan, said the families of the two children were being supported.
He added the beach was "very busy" at the time of the incident and urged anyone with information to come forward.