Migrant boat sinking LIVE: English Channel rescue operation launched to save small boats

A huge rescue operation is underway in the English Channel after a migrant dinghy "deflated", plunging dozens of people into the water.

A Coastguard helicopter has been scrambled, along with lifeboat crews and Border Force personnel.

A source told the Daily Express the dinghy deflated as it reached UK waters.

The RNLI have confirmed their involvement in "incidents in the Channel" on Tuesday afternoon.

An RNLI spokesperson said: "RNLI lifeboats have been tasked by HM Coastguard to incidents in the Channel today."

Two coastguard vans and ambulances are waiting to receive migrants at the Port of Dover.