A sailing vessel has been rescued from the Channel after being overwhelmed by winds of over 40mph.

The Dungeness lifeboat was sent out at 7.40am today after the boat got into serious difficulties.

The craft's location wasn't immediately known so the lifeboat crew started to search about 17 miles south east of base before a dredger was able to report the exact location.

When they drew level, it was established a person on board needed assistance.

A crewman boarded the boat and a tow line was established.

It was decided the lifeboat would tow the casualty to Eastbourne. However, due to the force of the winds, plans were changed and the casualty was towed to Rye Harbour.

"The casualty vessel was in difficulty due to the strong winds and did the right thing in calling the UK Coastguard for help"

The lifeboat returned to station and was back on service by 4pm.

Parts of Kent have been affected in recent days by strong winds associated with Storm Ellen .

Dungeness lifeboat coxswain Stuart Adams said: "The casualty vessel was in difficulty due to the strong winds and did the right thing in calling the UK Coastguard for help.

"We always advise that you take a means of communication with you when entering or sailing on any body of water so that you can dial 999 and ask for help in an emergency."

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