A CAR ended up in the sea after getting stuck in soft sand.

Littlehampton Coastguard were called on Saturday by Elmer beachgoers attempting to move the 4x4 before the tide came in.

A spokesman for the service said: "Once on scene the tide had come in and flooded the 4x4, this meant that recovery off the beach was no longer an option.

"Thankfully there were no persons inside or at risk which was our immediate concern.

"The vehicle, which is a launch vehicle for a local yacht club, had become stuck in soft sand, and despite many attempts at recovery it had remained stuck in place.

"The team assessed the pollution risk and stood by as safety cover whilst members of the sailing club attached anchors."

In a coastal emergency call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.