A coastguard helicopter was spotted searching for a kayaker near a popular beach.

There is a large emergency response near Folkestone at near the Harbour Arm this morning.

Paramedics and the coastguard are at the scene.

A helicopter was seen searching the sea shortly before 11am.

Resident Steve Wood, 48, said: “There was a helicopter in the harbour.

“There were ambulances coming into town in the large overflow car park.”

A coastguard spokesman said: “We were called to reports of a kayaker who had become separated from a kayak off Folkestone Pier at about 9.50am this morning.

“Folkestone Coastguard Rescue Team attended the scene, alongside an HM Coastguard Rescue Helicopter.

“The casualty was lifted from the water by a winchman paramedic and passed into the care of South East Coast Ambulance Service on land.”

The kayaker’s condition has not been confirmed.

The ambulance service has been contacted for more information.