A woman who sparked a huge emergency response after being spotted in a Maidstone river has appeared in court for the fourth time this week.

Janicke Van Wyk was charged with causing a public nuisance after being dragged from the River Len next to Cafe Beck, Palace Avenue, at 3.30pm yesterday.

The 28-year-old today pleaded guilty to the offence at Maidstone Magistrates' Court and was remanded in custody for three weeks ahead of sentencing.

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The court heard how at 3pm yesterday following a hearing Wyk had called police and told them she had sharp garden tools which she would harm herself and others with.

Three police cars, paramedics and the fire service then rushed to Mill Street and closed the entrance to Palace Avenue after she jumped into the water.

A passerby said: "Police came out and ran to help, but some officers had to run to the River Medway to get a life ring, as there wasn't one in the area, before they could get her out."

Wyk, of Hitchen Hatch Lane, Sevenoaks, was reportedly scared about being swept under the bridge and into the Medway.

She was taken to Maidstone Hospital for treatment.

This morning magistrates heard how Wyk was suffering from a personality disorder and felt lonely and uncomfortable with her living arrangements.

The South African was previously living with her GP father and mother but had recently moved to a hotel.

Video: Emergency crews at the scene

The offence follows court appearances for breaching the peace at Maidstone Hospital, threatening to burn down HSBC in High Street and making threats while sitting by the River Medway.

For each offence she was given three, six-month bind orders set at £25, £40 and £40 — meaning she will have to behave or pay a fee.

Magistrates remanded Wyk in custody until Friday, June 19, for psychiatric tests after which she will be sentenced.