Soaring temperatures have boosted the Jellyfish population in estuary waters and may cause more shark sightings.

Pink Jellyfish have been floating through the River Medway, close to the bank.

Sightings include multiple jellyfish near the Esplanade, Waterfront Bus Station in Chatham and six next to the Medway Messenger offices on the Medway City Estate.

Retired diver Marcus Brown, of Haig Avenue, Rochester reported jellyfish next to the and opposite Starbucks, Tanning Shop and Island Holmes at the Dockside in Chatham.

The 45 year old ex Scuba Dive leader said: "A bit of a pest for swimmers but lovely to look at!

"Even if the temperatures increase by one or two degrees we could see lots more marine life from the Mediterranean.

"We might even get Cat Sharks and Basking Sharks which can grow up to 6-8 metres long."

Environment Agency Spokesman Elisa Orchard said: "The hot weather has increased water temperature which has seen high levels of jelly fish in our coastal waters.

"This means there is an increased chance of seeing jelly fish in the Medway Estuary, particularly when the tide is coming in.

"If you do spot a jellyfish floating along or washed up, don’t try and move it or push it away, just move out of its path and never handle them even if it is washed up on the bank.

"Dead jelly fish can still sting!"

This comes after dogfish, a type of shark, were spotted at the Dockside last week.

The increase in marine wildlife seems to be due to the scorching sunshine boosting the water temperature in the River Medway.

If you think you've seen fish in distress or want to report an environmental incident, call us on: 0800 80 70 60 24 hour service.