A man is being treated in hospital after being rescued from a river.

The casualty, in his 50s, was plucked to safety by fire crews after being spotted in the water in Leigh near Tonbridge just after 5pm.

It is understood he was in the river for around 20 minutes and had fallen in after attempting to rescue a sheep.

He was said to be in shock after being pulled to safety by firefighters using reach poles and was taken to hospital as a precaution.

The rescue operation, which took place in Ensfield Road, involved two fire engines and took around 45 minutes.

It prompted the fire service to issue a warning for people to be extra cautious around rivers and waterways, especially at this time of year when they are swollen and flowing faster than normal.

KFRS has also issued the following safety advice:

• If you see someone or an animal in trouble in the water, the advice is to always call 999 and ask for fire.

• Never place yourself or others in danger.

• If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, try to relax and float on your back to catch your breath. This will help you calm down and preserve energy before calling out for help or swimming to safety if possible.