Emergency services are carrying out rescue efforts after a number of incidents in the channel.

Coastguard, search and rescue and border force officers are responding to the incidents off the coast of Kent.

The exact number of callouts spanning from 10pm last night to this morning has not been confirmed, but is rumoured to be as high as eight separate incidents.

This included an emergency call to an injury on board a vessel attempting to cross the channel from France.

A lifeboat was sent out from Dover alongside the helicopter from Lydd, which brought a paramedic to assess two people, one of whom had a back injury they had suffered while still on land.

Thankfully, neither needed to be air but neither needed to be airlifted. The paramedic went back with the helicopter, while the people were brought on board the lifeboat and taken to shore safe and well.

The ongoing search and rescue response also included a family rescued from a kayak in the channel.

A family of three, including a child with his father, were rescued from the tiny vessel by the RNLI.

Also involved is the Coastgaurd's fixed-wing aircraft, which is providing an aerial view for officers in boats.

A costguard spokesman said: "We will continue to safeguard life around the seas and coastal areas of the UK, working with search and rescue resources in the area.

"If a vessel needs search and rescue assistance, HM Coastguard will continue to respond and rescue those in danger."

A total of 36 asylum seekers were rescued yesterday from one boat, according to the Home Office.

Dan O’Mahoney, Clandestine Channel Threat Commander, said: “Last month’s tragedy is a devastating reminder of the dangers of Channel crossings and we are determined to work with our European and international partners to target the ruthless organised criminal gangs behind them.

“Unbelievably, these gangs continue to ply their deadly trade with more crossings taking place today, shamelessly putting lives at risk.

“The Government’s New Plan for Immigration will be firm on those coming here via illegal routes and fair for those using safe and legal routes. This will reduce the pull factors in the current asylum and immigration system.”