A WARNING has been issued about the dangers of intoxicated swimming after emergency services were called to save a drunk man in the sea.

Brighton RNLI was alerted by Sussex Police in the early hours of this morning to “help get a man out of the water opposite a seafront club”.

There was a search yesterday evening with a heavy police presence outside the Brighton Palace Pier. One officer said it was a “missing person”.

While it is unclear if the incidents were connected, the RNLI said the incident serves as a “dangerous” warning.

The Argus: The police presence outside of Brighton Palace Pier last nightThe police presence outside of Brighton Palace Pier last night

A spokesman said: “We were called out at 12.55am to assist in helping get a man out of the water opposite a seafront club.

“When we arrived he was already walking out to safety.

“The RNLI has a very strong message: don’t drink and drown.

“Trying to swim under the influence of alcohol is very dangerous and the effects of cold water on the body are magnified, with potentially fatal consequences.

“We’re asking everyone in Brighton to take this weekend and know the risks.”

The Argus: Officers said there was a "missing person"Officers said there was a "missing person"

Roger Cohen, operations manager at Brighton RNLI, said: “It is an unfortunate statistic that a number of adult drownings have alcohol involved in the equation.

"Let’s enjoy this glorious weather but don’t enter the sea when you have had a drink. Alcohol and the current sea temperatures will impair your judgement. If you see someone in trouble, dial 999.”

A witness said a dozen officers had been stopping and speaking to people by the beach. 

An officer at the scene said the response was in relation to a “missing person”.

Sussex Police have been contacted for further comment.