Harwich: Search called off after two rescued in North Sea

The lifeboat at Harwich returned to base after taking part in a search

Two men travelling in a small boat in the North Sea have been rescued while a search for a third person has ended.

The Home Office said two Somali nationals were rescued and a dinghy recovered during a search off the Harwich coast in Essex on Monday.

A spokesperson said the rescued men were being processed within the immigration rules.

Border Force and RNLI lifeboat crews were involved in the search co-ordinated by the Coastguard.

The Home Office said the "extensive" search and rescue operation for a man reported to have entered the water concluded at about 14:00 BST.

A spokesperson said: "While the investigation into this incident continues, it is a reminder of the extreme dangers of crossing the Channel in small boats and the callous disregard for life shown by the criminal gangs."

The government department added it remained "determined to do everything we can to prevent people dying in the Channel".

HM Coastguard said it sent the coastguard helicopter to the incident off Harwich

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) said a helicopter and a plane were involved in the search.

It is understood RNLI lifeboats were launched from Harwich, Frinton and Walton to help in the search on Monday and again on Tuesday morning.