A mystery hero has been praised for rescuing a young girl from strong currents at Axmouth harbour this afternoon (Tuesday).

Axmouth is infamous for its strong currents which can easily sweep swimmers out to sea.

An eyewitness to today's incident has praised the unnamed man on social media, saying he saved the girl from drowning as she attempted to cross the river mouth and was swept out by the current.

The eyewitness said the man, who was on the Seaton side of the beach, immediately jumped into the water to rescue the girl, adding it was a "brave a selfless thing to do".

"He staggered onto the beach looking exhausted to return to his young boy who waited patiently for his heroic dad to return," they added.

"Thankfully it ended in a positive way thanks to this courageous man. You saved her life!"

Other Facebook users have also praised the man's actions.

For emergencies on the coast, cliffs or tidal river, official advice of the emergency services is to call 999 and ask for the coastguards.

Local coastguards also advise against swimming or jumping in Axmouth harbour due to the strong currents.