Thames Coastguard requested the lifeboat to launch following a report of a kitesurfer in difficulties off the Hotel Continental, Whitstable.

On arrival a person with a rig matching the description of the casualty was seen on the beach near Whitstable Street.

As it was too rough to approach the shoreline to speak to the person, the lifeboat commenced a search. Shortly afterwards Herne Bay Coastguard arrived and spoke to the kitesurfer, who confirmed that he had suffered a torn kite, and been down in the water for some time.

The lifeboat then returned to station, to make a net recovery into the carriage due to the rough conditions.