A family of five had to be rescued by the RNLI and coastguard after they became cut off by the tide.

The two parents and three children managed to climb partially up the cliff at Warden Point, Sheppey, to keep themselves out of the water.

Whitstable RNLI was called out at 4.20pm on Friday (August 23) and the B-Class lifeboat Lewisco arrived nine minutes later.

Helmsman Andy Williams says the tide was “right up to the base of the cliff”.

“We made a cautious approach to the foot of the clay cliff due to boulders on the sea bed,” he explained.

“The Sheppey Coastguard Rescue were at the top of the cliff and were contemplating a rope rescue should we not be able to extract the family by sea.

“Crew member Vicky Kypta went ashore to assist the family onto the lifeboat.

“All were well and we landed them ashore at Leysdown beach where the coastguard team were waiting to assist.”

At the time, there were cloudy skies but good visibility and light winds with a smooth sea.

Mr Williams added: “As ever following similar incidents to the one this afternoon our advice to those contemplating walks along the shoreline is always to be aware of tide, weather and other local conditions, especially in the vicinity of cliffs such as those at Warden Point.”