A huge search operation continues on the Kent coast following reports of a person going missing in the water.

Multiple emergency service vehicles – including a helicopter and lifeboats – were called to the Hythe area shortly before 2pm yesterday (Tuesday).

Coastguard teams from nearby areas such as Deal and Folkestone were called to assist - with spotlight searches continuing throughout the night.

Crews continue to patrol the coast today as the search continues.

Police and paramedics were also present in Hythe and Sandgate, while lifeboats, a drone and aircraft searched in the dark.

About three RNLI lifeboats could be seen systematically searching the coastline throughout yesterday afternoon with the assistance of a helicopter.

Multiple coastguard crew members were seen walking up and down the water’s edge yes, looking out towards the sea.

An RNLI lifeboat was circling 500 metres offshore while another searched near Sandgate.

This evening, three lifeboats can be seen searching with spotlights off the coast.

A large drone is hovering above the beach at Sandgate and a coastguard plane was seen flying over the sea.

The coastguard helicopter was searching between Hythe and Sandgate earlier but has left the scene.

There were about five coastguard vehicles and two police cars near the BP garage in Seabrook Road.

An eyewitness said: "I heard a helicopter flying low, came outside and multiple agencies can be seen on land, in the sea and air, searching the bay between Hythe and Sandgate.

“Various people have stopped to watch.”

A police spokesman said: “We were called to assist at 1.52pm today after receiving a report of concern for a person near to Princes Parade in Hythe.”

“Officers alongside HM Coastguard and other emergency services remain at the scene while the incident is responded to.”

A coastguard spokesman said: “A rescue helicopter and rescue teams from Langdon, Folkestone and Romney Marsh have been called to the scene, alongside RNLI Dungeness and RNLI Dover lifeboats.”

More as we get it.