Small boat rescue launched in Channel: UK coastguard

The UK and France started a search and rescue operation Wednesday after an incident involving a small boat in the Channel off England's southern coast, Britain's coastguard said.

"HM Coastguard is currently coordinating a search and rescue response to an incident involving a small boat off Kent, working with the Navy, Border Force, Kent Police and other partners," it said.

"Coastguard helicopters from Lydd and Lee on Solent and one from the French Navy are involved. A fishing vessel in the area is also assisting in the rescue," the agency added, noting an air ambulance and at least four lifeboats had been sent.

"The incident is ongoing and we have no further information," the coastguard said.

French officials also confirmed a rescue operation was underway involving one of its helicopters and a navy patrol boat to aid the operation being led by Britain's coastguard.

Tens of thousands of migrants now regularly attempt to cross the Channel, one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, from France to Britain in small boats, in a trend that has grown hugely in recent years.

At least 27 people drowned attempting to cross the Channel in a dinghy in November 2021.