A struggling windsurfer was rescued with the help of watchful members of the public.

Beachgoers kept the man in sight until Margate's lifeboat crew were able to locate him.

They have been praised by the RNLI team.

Paul Hodson, Margate lifeboat operations manager said: “This gentleman owes his life to those ashore who spotted his predicament and persevered in ensuring the lifeboat was able to locate him and ensure his safe return to shore."

"It could mean the difference between life and death for someone finding themselves in difficulties" - Paul Hodson

Coastguards were alerted yesterday evening when people on shore became concerned about a windsurfer who appeared to be struggling in blustery weather conditions off Minnis Bay.

Margate’s RNLI inshore lifeboat was launched and the crew spotted a windsurfer with the same coloured sail who turned out not to be in difficulty.

The first informants told emergency services that the original windsurfer was still visible sitting on his board and the lifeboat crew then found the exhausted windsurfer more than a mile offshore, attempting to reach a sandbank.

Mr Hodson said: “We urge anyone who sees anything untoward at sea to dial 999 and ask for coastguard.

"It could mean the difference between life and death for someone finding themselves in difficulties.”