Patrols protect marine wildlife

The 13 waterborne officers are working with other agencies

Kent Police's team of waterborne officers and the RSPCA are teaming up to protect marine wildlife from harassment by powerboats and jet-skis.

Police and the RSPCA Marine Unit will focus on powered craft operating from Neptune Harbour at Herne Bay.

Officers will also patrol the River Stour and Pegwell Bay both on the water and on off-road cycles at the weekend.

The Herne Bay operation aims to protect seals and seabirds while the Stour gives refuge to otters and water vole.

Cause annoyance

Kent Wildlife Trust will be on hand on the River Stour to give out information on its protected species.

The police team of 13 waterborne officers, trained by the Royal Yachting Association, is cracking down on anti-social behaviour on Kent's coast, rivers and estuaries.

A spokesman said marine craft, including jet-skis, exceeding the speed limit can cause annoyance to both fishermen and wildlife.

Police will be working with the Port of Medway Authority to patrol the Medway and Swale estuaries.

Beach safety

Canterbury City Council Water and Shore Patrol will also be conducting high-visibility patrols between Seasalter and Reculver and at Whitstable Regatta.

And coastguards and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution are to carry out a water and beach safety education programme for swimmers and sunbathers.

Coastguards are urging people to keep a close eye on their children at the beach as the school holidays get under way.

East Kent Coastguard Andy Roberts said: "We have been involved in searching for over 100 missing children this year alone.

"Although everyone involved has been rescued, the searches result in a huge amount of worry and stress for parents and children."