A MAN was taken to hospital after slipping on a beach groyne.

Brighton Beach Patrol teams discovered the man, who had suffered "possible spinal injuries" after slipping on the groyne near the bandstand on Brighton Beach last night, just before 10pm.

South East Coast Ambulance Service and Shoreham Coastguard were also called to the scene and the patient was transferred to an ambulance on a rescue stretcher.

Shoreham Coastguard are warning the public to take extra care when visiting the coast.

They said: "Please be careful at all times on the beach, especially in hours of darkness. 

"Sea groynes are dangerous to climb on as well as to jump off.

"Don’t take unnecessary risks and never use lilos or inflatable toys in the sea.

"Also do not make fires on the beach at night-time. These heat the stones and shingle which can remain red hot for hours afterwards, causing injury to children, adults and animals."

Anyone who sees someone in trouble on the beach or at sea should dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.