AN ELDERLY man has died after getting into difficulties in the sea.

A rescue operation was launched off the coast of Seaford yesterday afternoon to save the 75-year-old.

Emergency services were called by a member of the public.

Sussex Police, HM Coastguard teams and the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance was also called to the scene at about 5pm.

Police confirmed that the man died at the scene.

A spokesman for Newhaven Coastguard said: "We were tasked to a report of a person in the water near Newhaven and Seaford Sailing Club. 

"On arrival the casualty had been taken from the water by a member of the public. 

"Sussex Police had just arrived and had commenced CPR. 

"The first members of the Coastguard team on scene assisted with CPR and carried on in turns with police and paramedics for around 40 minutes. 

"Coastguard Rescue helicopter 163 landed their paramedic on the beach to assist.

"A HEMS doctor was flown in by air ambulance but despite everyone’s best efforts, the casualty was unable to be saved."