Whitstable Lifeboat was launched after Thames Coastguard received a 999 call from a male, believed to be in the Seasalter area, stating that he was contemplating suicide in the sea.

The lifeboat commenced a search close inshore between Seasalter and Graveney Marshes,  whilst Herne Bay Coastguards and Kent Police searched along the beaches.

An RAF Sea King helicopter from Wattisham was also tasked.

At 0014, just as the helicopter arrived on scene, the police reported that they had been able to trace the man via his mobile phone, and he had been found safe and well in his caravan at Seasalter.

All units were therefore stood down, with the call being deemed a malicious hoax.