A RESCUE operation was launched today after a vessel believed to be carrying migrants got into difficulty off the Sussex coast.

About 30 men, women and children were safely towed ashore at Sovereign Harbour in Eastbourne after a small boat got into difficulty south of Beachy Head.

SEE ALSO: Dozens rescued off coast in Sussex after 'migrant' boat crossing

Some people were taken to hospital for welfare checks, according to the East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust.

Sussex Police assisted Border Force in receiving "a number of people suspected of not having authority to enter the UK" and said that those detained are being taken into custody and care by Border Force.

Here are some photos from the scene today from photographer Eddie Mitchell.

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