A lifeboat crew was scrambled after reports of four people in the sea off Dymchurch.

The incident was understood to involve a vessel possibly taking on water. The alarm was raised when the boat broadcast a Mayday emergency signal.

Crews from Littlestone were mobilised this afternoon and an operation was co-ordinated by the coastguard. There were also reports a search and rescue helicopter was involved.

A thorough search was carried out but crews were later stood down.