Four people have been rescued after becoming stranded by high tides while out walking.

The coastguard and RNLI were called out after the walkers were spotted in St Margaret's Bay near Dover.

The lifeboat services were soon on hand after a member of the public called 999 shortly after 9am today.

The caller had noticed the trapped hikers standing on rocks and waving after being cut off by the tide.

The Deal and Langdom Battery coastguard rescue team attended alongside the Dover RNLI lifeboat, and the people were recovered and taken safely to shore.

All four were described as "cold, but otherwise safe and well".

The incident has lead to a warning from the Coastguard about the dangers of walking along the coast.

"Their morning walk could have ended very differently"

Kerry Chapman said: "The group were extremely lucky to be spotted by a member of the public who called 999 and asked for the Coastguard.

"They were in a very precarious position and their morning walk could have ended very differently.

"Remember to always check the weather and tides before you set out so you can prepare accordingly.

"Consider whether you could become cut off by the incoming tide and don’t take unnecessary risks, and take a fully charged mobile phone with you so you can call for help if the worst should happen."

If you get into difficulty or see anyone in trouble along the coast and out at sea call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Read more: All the latest news from Dover