PEOPLE in Totland have witnessed dramatic scenes this afternoon and early evening as the Coastguard undergoes training.

Eagle-eyed residents and visitors may have seen the Coastguard helicopter hovering over a ship in the Solent off Totland for for the past hour or so.

The marine traffic website says it is a cargo ship called the Wilson Durness which is heading to Southampton, while the Vessel Finder site confirms the ship's estimated arrival into Southampton was at 2pm, meaning it's running more than three hours behind schedule.

The vessel is a General Cargo Ship built in 2008 and currently sailing under the flag of Antigua & Barbuda.

All photos and videos were supplied by Island photographer, Paul Blackley.