Paramedics and other emergency crews were scrambled to Minster beach after a girl was swept away by strong currents.

The youngster, believed to be aged about 12, was taken to hospital where she is said to be in a " potentially serious condition".

Four police cars, three ambulance crews and a fire engine were spotted at the beach at about 1.15pm.

An air ambulance was also sent.

A Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust spokesman confirmed it had been dispatched shortly after 1.30pm.

An eyewitness said: "Girl taken out in tide at Minster shingle bank, have been told girl is of 11/12 years."

Another said: "I saw them put someone on a stretcher and take them away in the helicopter."

Police and ambulance crews were called shortly before 1.30pm to a report a young girl had been pulled from the sea near Barton's Point Coastal Park and CPR was in progress.

A South East Coast Ambulance spokesman said: "The young girl has been airlifted to King's College Hospital in London in a potentially serious condition still."

The extent of the child's injuries is not currently known.