A ferry raised the alarm to Border Force when it spotted migrants crossing the Channel this morning.

It is understood they were seen mid-Channel by those on board P&O Ferries ship, Pride of Canterbury, at 7am.

Following a call, HMC Seeker, a cutter on patrol at the time, diverted to provide assistance and eight adults were safely transferred on board.

The individuals were taken to Dover where they were medically assessed and found to be well.

They have been transferred to inmigration officials for interview.

A Home Office spokesman said their nationalities have not yet been confirmed.

There has been a trend since last autumn of migrants trying to reach the British coast by small craft.

Since November 2018, there has been more than 80 cases involving over 730 people.

Read more: All the latest news from Dover