Three men were saved by Margate's RNLI inshore lifeboat along with RNLI lifeguards from a small dinghy after it started sinking.

The Coastguard received a 999 call from the group on board the small dinghy yesterday afternoon, reporting they were taking in water and being blown out to sea off Westgate-on- Sea.

The craft had no engine, no oars and no anchor and no means of attracting attention other than a mobile phone.

The inshore lifeboat along with the RNLI lifeguard rescue water craft (RWC) from
Margate Main Sands were called to help.

The lifeboat arrived on scene, around one mile offshore where the RWC was standing by stranded boat.

The three men were taken on board the lifeboat and given protection from the cold.

Their craft was taken in tow and returned to the beach at Epple Bay where they were handed into the care of local coastguard officers.

The men were not hurt.

Peter Barker, deputy launching authority, said: "An outboard engine, oars, anchor and
means of attracting attention are essential equipment suitable for a small dinghy
going to sea.

"Suitable protective clothing and lifejackets should also be worn.

"The occupants would soon have been out of the range of their mobile phone and they
were lucky to be able to raise the alarm, a marine VHF radio and flares are also
investments that could save your life."