The coastguard were called to investigate after an empty boat was spotted off the coast of Sandgate.

Folkestone Coastguard went to the beach at the west end of the old coastguard cottages at High Street, Sandgate at 7.25am on Saturday.

A member of the public reported seeing an unattended rigid inflatable boat (RIB) anchored in the sea.

Dover lifeboat was also launched but later stood down after the coastguard discovered the owner had swum to shore the previous evening.

Lyn Griffiths from Folkestone Coastguard said: "Whilst we were making local enquiries the owner made himself known and explained it had broken down the previous evening so they had anchored it and swum ashore."

The owner was advised that it would be prudent to contact HM Coastguard in future.

Any boat owners who break down and are unable to reach a harbour can call the coastguard at the maritime rescue co-ordination centre in Dover on 01304 210008.