A search operation was launched after a woman was spotted going into the sea this evening.

The RNLI, coastguard and police looked for two hours between Margate Harbour and Foreness Point, before officers found her ashore near Palm Bay at 7pm.

A lifeboat and a coastguard rescue helicopter from Lydd Airport and Margate Coastguard Rescue Team were called at around 5pm, following reports of a female seen entering the sea close to the lifeboat station.

The woman has been passed into the care of healthcare professionals.

The RNLI has been approached for further comment.