A major search was launched after a man was reported missing from a gas tanker off the coast of Margate.

Two lifeboats, the Coastguard helicopter and a Royal Navy warship scoured the sea as part of the operation.

The search began just before 6am today after the man, whose age has not been confirmed, was reported missing from a petroleum gas tanker at the Margate Roads anchorage.

Margate Lifeboat spokesman Peter Barker said: "The ship reported him unaccounted for. They couldn't find for him on board the ship so they did a search of the ship, and when they couldn't find him they telephoned the Coastguard.

"We were called at about quarter to six this morning, and the search has been ongoing since then.

"The search involves two lifeboats from Margate and Ramsgate, as well as the Coastguard helicopter and a Royal Navy warship - HMS Westminster."

Police have confirmed they were called to the scene just after 9am, after receiving a report "for the concern for the welfare of man missing from a ship anchored off the coast at Margate".

Officers are working with the Coastguard to carry out enquiries.

The search has now been called off, after the body of a man was found.

A yellow warning for wind and rain is currently in place across the county, as Storm Dennis is expected later today.

More to follow.

Read more: All the latest news from Thanet