A Coastguard rescue training session turned into real life drama for a group of volunteers in east Kent on Friday (26 February).

The team of volunteers were called to helped rescue a dog who was swept nearly five miles along the east Kent coast.

The owner of a Staffordshire bull terrier contacted Deal Coastguard at about 9.30pm and reported that the dog had been swept into the sea north of Deal Pier.

Dover Coastguard was contacted and calculated the wind and tide conditions would have swept the dog to Sandwich Bay, where he was later found.

Dover Coastguard watch manager Mike Painter said: "These volunteer Coastguard rescue officers were at the right place at the right time

"The owner of the dog was immensely grateful to see his pet returned safe and sound."

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2010