RNLI volunteers are warning people to take extra caution after two people were swept into the sea.

A crew from Whitstable was called on Sunday afternoon to reports of paddleboarders facing difficulties in strong winds near Leysdown, Sheppey.

Their lifeboat arrived to find two men paddling ashore – a quarter of a mile away from Neptune's Beach Cafe.

After making contact, the boat remained in the area and kept the pair under observation until they reached the shore.

It was then stood down after the duo confirmed they did not need help.

However, the RNLI is urging people to take extra care when choosing to enter the water, and not to underestimate the power of high winds.

A spokesman said: “We advise anyone going in or onto the water for any kind of activity should always be aware of wind, tide and the weather forecast.

“They should be equipped with suitable buoyancy aids, have an adequate means of communication and keep someone onshore aware of the nature of their activity.

“In offshore winds and ebb tides, as was the case on Sunday, small craft such as paddleboards and inflatables can very quickly be carried offshore as people underestimate the strength of the wind and effort necessary to regain the shore.”