Three "wet and cold" children have been found by a police helicopter in a field in Sandwich after getting lost.

A large search of more than 25 people was mounted after the youths went missing in the early evening. The Kent and Essex aircraft was also scrambled.

The reports were made over social media, with regular Twitter user @Kent_999 tweeting they were found safe and well following a large search.

Kent Police have not yet confirmed the claims but Kent Search and Rescue posted on Facebook that the search had been successful in the early hours of Monday.

The Facebook post said: "Pleased to report that three minors who got lost yesterday evening were located by the police helicopter in the early hours of this morning.

"They were evacuated safe and well, albeit cold and wet.

"The weather is truly dreadful in Kent tonight (Sunday) so special thanks to the 25 strong Search Team who responded - back to bed now !

"If you don't have to go out...please don't!"

Kent Search And Rescue is manned by volunteers and is operational 24 days a week, 365 days a year.

The unit is activated at the request of Kent Police and other emergency organisations.

This is achieved by a telephone call to a duty officer, who will in turn activate the members by text.

You can make donations via their Facebook page. Or click here.