A microlight pilot has narrowly survived crashing into the sea off Deal.

The man crash-landed on the water at around 7pm yesterday after getting into difficulties.

Luckily, he was rescued by a passing ship.

A spokesman for Dover Coastguard said crew on the Britannia Beaver hauled him aboard using a rope.

The man was taken to the QEQM Hospital in Margate for treatment. He is believed to have been suffering from hypothermia.