A multi-agency search operation was launched after an SOS signal was triggered at a beauty spot.

The coastguard helicopter was spotted searching the Pegwell Bay area yesterday evening after a personal location beacon (PLB) was activated.

The RNLI and police were also called to the scene amid fears somebody could be in trouble.

A coastguard spokesperson said: “We responded to an incident involving an activation of PLB at Sandwich Bay.

“Alerted shortly after 5pm, Deal Coastguard Rescue Team was sent alongside an HM Coastguard helicopter.

“Walmer lifeboat and Kent Police also attended.

“The search was stood down once and it was confirmed nobody was in distress.”

A PLB is a small device that sends a personalised distress signal to search and rescue services when activated.

They are used at sea as well as ashore and can be used on their own or in conjunction with a mobile phone. They are useful when people are out of range of mobile phone service.

A similar incident happened on Tuesday night when a major search operation was launched between Broadstairs and Deal after reports a PLB had been activated.

The RNLI conducted a stepped shoreline search from Sandown Castle near Deal, up to North Foreland and back, before the personal locator was found ashore, and the operation was stood down.

A coastguard Agency spokesperson added: "Spending just 15 minutes registering a PLB or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) online could make all the difference to being found and recovered safely from a life-threatening situation.

"Registration means that when a PLB or EPIRB is activated, HM Coastguard can use the details to identify, verify and locate the person in distress and send help more quickly and effectively in an emergency.

“It also helps us stand down our response when we confirm activation was by mistake, which happens from time to time.

"You can register any existing 406MHz PLBs or EPIRBs, and any new ones you buy in future, on our customer self-serve webpage. Make sure you keep your registration up to date."