A search and rescue operation was launched to find a missing man who was found seven hours later and detained under the Mental Health Act.

The police requested the coastguard's help yesterday at 9pm to help with the search at Sunny Sands in Folkestone.

Officers had been searching themselves since 4.37pm.

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The rescue helicopter from Lydd was out until just after 11.30pm when it was stood down as he had been found.

Police spokesman Martin Very said: "Kent Police was called regarding concern for the welfare of a man in Folkestone.

"Officers conducted a number of inquiries and the coastguard helicopter assisted with the search.

"At 11.30pm on the same day, the man was located by police officers in Wear Bay Road, Folkestone where he was detained under the Mental Health Act.

"He was taken to hospital for medical attention."