A WOMAN is fighting for her life after falling into the sea in her wheelchair at the Cobb in Lyme Regis.

Rescuers and passers-by dived into the harbour in a desperate attempt to find her and bring her to the surface.

The woman, who was strapped into an electric wheelchair, toppled from the landmark into three metres of water in the Victoria Pier area of the harbour at 12.50pm yesterday.

Paramedics, coastguards and lifeboat crew were among those to dive into the harbour.

The woman, who is in her twenties, was unconscious when she was brought to the surface.

She was flown to the Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester by the Devon air ambulance at 2.05pm.

Police said that she is in a critical condition and officers have launched an investigation into the incident.

South Western Ambulance Service said that its paramedic was able to bring her to the surface. The lifeboat crew who also dived in were Elliott Herbert, Martin Croad, Brian Street, Dave Street, John Cable and Rob Crabbe. Coastguard Toby Newson and boatman Harry May also dived into the harbour.

A police spokesman said that the woman’s condition was critical and that officers are investigating.

He said: “It was a tremendous team effort following what appears to have been an awful accident.”

“Everyone who worked to rescue this lady should stand proud.

“They were professional, quick to respond and calm.

“Everyone did everything they possibly could to help this unfortunate lady.”