Search launched in English Channel after '˜migrants' spotted in dinghy off the coast

A major search was launchedin the English Channel today after a rubber dinghy filled with up to 10 people was spotted off the coast.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Nov 2016, 10:29 BST
Updated 16th Nov 2016, 16:22 BST
Birling Gap Safety Boat Open Day. April 9th 2012 E15145N The Newhaven Lifeboat returns to base after exercise with Coastguard helicopter is called off. SUS-150113-100140001Birling Gap Safety Boat Open Day. April 9th 2012 E15145N The Newhaven Lifeboat returns to base after exercise with Coastguard helicopter is called off. SUS-150113-100140001
Birling Gap Safety Boat Open Day. April 9th 2012 E15145N The Newhaven Lifeboat returns to base after exercise with Coastguard helicopter is called off. SUS-150113-100140001

Dover Coastguard is co-ordinating the operation and Newhaven lifeboat has been sent to the scene between Peacehaven and Saltdean in East Sussex.

A passer-by reported seeing people on the boat which was heading to the shore.

It is being treated as migrants attempting to get into the UK.