A rare luminous algae caused the sea to glow a beautiful neon blue – drawing photographers to the coast from afar.

The phenomenon, which is difficult to predict and requires “perfect conditions”, was seen at Botany Bay in Broadstairs, as well as other points along Thanet’s coastline.

Roger Stanger was one of those who rushed out with his camera to capture the bioluminescent showcase.

The 54-year-old explained: “I feel lucky to have seen it.

“I get that thrill when I see it in the distance.”

Having tracked down the rare algae at different locations in the past, he added: “It doesn't matter how many times you see it - it's amazing.”

Water movement is needed to see the illuminations, as the glow is actually a defence mechanism by the plant when its environment is disturbed.

The Hersden resident, who takes pictures semi-professionally at Roger Stanger Photography, said: “You can’t predict when it will happen, but the warm weather is a good sign.

“Perfect conditions are needed.

“I keep my ear to the ground and listen out for rumours on social media.

“Occasionally you get lucky.”

Mr Stanger took his photo with a long exposure to bring out the path taken by the algae.

Also snapping the rare scenes was fellow camera owner Rebbeca Douglas.

She told KentOnline: “It was incredible - something I've wanted to see.

“As a nature photographer it was on my bucket list.”

She also saw people mentioning the event on social media, and headed out.

The next evening she went out again and saw the phenomena on Walpole Bay, this time close enough to follow it along the shore.

Prints of Ms Douglas’ photos can be purchased on her website.

This is not the first time the spectacle has happened in Kent.

In June last year, St Mary’s Bay and New Rommney’s seas were lit up by the luminous substance.

Dinoflagellates, the type of algae which produces the neon glow, can be dangerously toxic, so nature lovers should appreciate it from the sand.