A woman has died and a man has been left in a critical condition after the pair got into difficulty while attempting to rescue their dog from the sea.

Emergency services were called to Thornton-Cleveleys on Saturday evening after two people were recovered from the water by HM Coastguard.

Lancashire Constabulary said officers were contacted by the ambulance service shortly after 8.31pm on May 30 and attended the scene near Fleetwood Beach Cafe.

Police believe the man and woman, both aged in their 60s, entered the water after their dog became stuck.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Constabulary said: "Shortly after 8:31pm yesterday, we were contacted by the ambulance service to inform us they were treating two people after they had been recovered from the sea in Thornton Cleveleys by HM Coastguard.

"Our officers attended the scene, near to Fleetwood Beach Cafe. At this time, we understand that a man and a woman had got into difficulty in the water after entering to rescue their dog who had become stuck."

Both casualties were treated at the scene before being taken to hospital.

The force confirmed that the woman sadly died after being hospitalised.

The spokesperson added: "The woman, aged in her 60s, was pronounced dead at hospital. Enquiries to identify her next of kin are ongoing."

The man remains in hospital in a critical condition.

Police also confirmed the dog was recovered from the sea safely.

"The dog was recovered safe and well," the spokesperson said.

Lancashire Constabulary said there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the woman's death and a that file will be prepared for the coroner.