Operation under way to save stranded whales

Nine whales have become stranded on the mudflats at Swale

A rescue operation is under way to save nine pilot whales that have become stranded off the Kent coast.

The pod has become trapped on mudflats at low tide in the Swale estuary near Sittingbourne.

Thirty members of British Divers Marine Life Rescue are using specialist equipment to get across the mud and reach the whales.

It is hoped the whales will be able to be refloated when the tide comes in during the early hours of Tuesday.

More rescuers are expected to arrive in the next few hours.

It is believed two team members have managed to reach the stranded mammals.

Access is by Harty Ferry Road, with a walk of three-quarters of a mile (1.2km) across the mud.

Rescuers have described the access conditions as "shocking".

Pontoons are being brought from London to help get 4x4 vehicles with equipment across the flats.