TV doctor Dr Ranj paid a visit to Kent with a film crew to highlight water safety.

The Cbeebies and former This Morning doctor, who grew up in Medway, joined volunteers at the RNLI Gravesend Lifeboat Station, in Royal Pier Road, Gravesend to film a feature for BBC Morning Life as part of Drowning Prevention Week.

During the visit on Wednesday last week, he learned from the experts the best ways to stay safe on the water during the summer as well as getting first-hand practise of the ‘float to live’ technique.

RNLi Thames Commander Liam Sidders said: “With summer's arrival, the footfall of visitors to the UK’s coasts and rivers increases dramatically, and, as part of Drowning Prevention Week it was important to share important lifesaving skills.

“Dr Ranj was keen to discuss cold water shock, the dangers of inflatables and the risks of being cut off by the tide. He proclaimed himself not to be a very confident swimmer - therefore we took him through the RNLI recommended technique 'float to live' a life-saving technique which gave him confidence should he ever become in trouble when entering the water.”

Ashley explained how the technique involves tilting your head back with your ears submerged and trying to relax and control your breathing. You should use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help to swim to safety if you can.

Ashley added: “It was great to have Dr Ranj come to the station and help spread our lifesaving advice to millions of viewers.”

Dr Ranj was born in Chatham and went to Gordon Junior School in Strood.