Thames Coastguard received several 999 calls regarding a kitesurfer apparently in difficulties half a mile off Tankerton, and requested the launch of Whitstable Lifeboat.

The lifeboat arrived on scene to find the kite and rig, but no one with it, so a search was commenced for the missing person.

However, a few minutes later, the owner contacted the boathouse to say that the kite had accidentally blown out to sea whilst being set up on the beach. The lifeboat therefore returned to station, having already recovered the kite and rig.