A charity worker had to be taken to hospital after falling 30ft off a ship into the River Medway.

The pensioner, who has not been named, was on board the ship Expansa when he fell from the vessel’s gangway into the water at Thamesport, on the Isle of Grain.

The 71-year-old was volunteering at the site making welfare checks on foreign crew members when the accident happened.

It is understood the volunteer fell at least 30ft from the vessel into the water and suffered a minor injury to his face.

He was said to be in the water for about 10 minutes before being rescued.

The Medway Coastguard team were called out to the ship at about 8.15am yesterday to assist with the rescue operation.

By the time they arrived at the site, the pensioner had been rescued by Thamesport workers.

He was then taken to hospital by paramedics and it is understood he was was released from hospital later in the afternoon.

Stories you might have missed

Banned driver spared prison after roundabout smash

Man fighting for life after 'fairground ride' accident

'Landmark' toilet site to become bar and cafe

Man walks free from court after alleged victim dies