Helicopter assists with 'search and rescue' off the coast of Harwich

ITV News Anglia reporter Russell Hookey sent this from the scene.

Coastguard officials have confirmed that a search and rescue operation is currently taking place off the coast of Essex.

The operation, involving a coastguard helicopter, and plane, follows an incident that took place yesterday. ITV News understands that two people have been rescued.

The Border Force has said it is "urgently responding" to the incident.

HM coastguard has confirmed that they sent a coastguard helicopter from Lydd in Kent and a coastguard fixed wing aircraft to the scene.

FlightRadar showed a coastguard plane flying off the coast of Essex. Credit: FlightRadar24

The details of the incident are not yet clear.

In a statement, it said: "Border Force is urgently responding to an ongoing incident off the coast of Harwich.

"Further details will be provided after the initial response and once the situation has been resolved."

A spokesman for HM Coastguard (MCA) said: "We sent the coastguard helicopter from Lydd and a coastguard fixed wing aircraft. HM Coastguard will continue to safeguard life around the seas and coastal areas of the UK, working with search and rescue resources in the area.

"If a vessel needs search and rescue assistance, HM Coastguard will continue to respond and rescue those in danger."

More information to follow.