Lifeboat crews have reunited a dog with its owner after the animal became trapped on a groyne at Westgate.

A member of the public contacted Margate's RNLI crews yesterday morning after seeing the dog trapped on the partially submerged concrete groyne.

The inshore lifeboat was sent to the Labrador at St Mildred's Bay, amid fears the dog's owner might attempt a rescue and put their own life at risk.

A crew member waded along the groyne to reach the animal, who was then transferred to the lifeboat.

Dog and owner were reunited, and the pair were able to continue their Sunday walk.

Peter Barker, volunteer lifeboat press officer for Margate RNLI said: "It is not unusual for dogs to get into difficulties at sea while out for a walk.

"The owner was correct here not to attempt a rescue and await the arrival of the lifeboat.

"Often the owner can end up being the one in difficulties while the dog’s natural instinct sees it survive the drama."