A fossil hunter had to be been rescued by a helicopter after collapsing on the beach.

Coastguard teams were called to the bottom of the cliffs near Warden Point, Sheppey to airlift the man who had got stuck in the mud while searching for specimens.

With help from a friend he managed to get himself free but had exhausted himself in the process.

The rescue operation started at around 1.15pm yesterday (February 17) with a Coastguard Helicopter 163 sent to assist the casualty.

A lifeboat crew from Whitstable was also deployed in case it was needed as the tide was coming in.

An ambulance was called for the man and paramedics later took over his care. The ambulance service has been approached for further information.

Warden Point is a popular fossil-hunting spot with lots of fresh finds all year round along the entire stretch of coast which are not dependent on beach or tidal conditions.