A diver who got into difficulties off the coast of Dover has died despite best efforts to save him.

Dover Coastguard was alerted to a diver in difficulty at 9.40pm last night.

Dover’s RNLI Severn Class Lifeboat City of London II launched just before 10pm following a call from a dive boat with an unconscious male diver on board.

The lifeboat crew and a paramedic met up with the diving vessel two miles off the harbour entrance.

The man, who is believed to be in his 50s, was transferred to the lifeboat where he was given CPR.

Kent Air Ambulance was also at the scene after landing close to the lifeboat station.

Despite the efforts of the lifeboat crew and ambulance staff the diver died at the scene.

A spokesman for Dover Lifeboat Station said all the crew offered their condolences to the family and friends of the dead man.

Kent Police confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious and officers will prepare a report for the coroner.