A man who became stuck up to his waist in mud on Littlestone beach had to be rescued by firefighters.

He had been digging for bait when the mud enveloped him.

His cries for help were heard by a dog walker who called the emergency services.

Firefighters from New Romney and Lydd used water rescue equipment to reach him.

Lydd crew manager Russell Harrison said: “Firefighters wearing water rescue suits worked to get as close to the man as they possibly could.

“He was a long way down the beach and still sinking. We pushed a hose towards him and he was able to hold onto it while we pulled him towards us as he worked himself free.

“We got to him safety using the Coastguard mud rescue unit’s floating stretcher.

“After treatment and just a little the worse for wear, the man left under his own steam. It was a long and difficult job with a good result.”

The Kentish Express backed a petition by Romney Marsh residents calling for water rescue equipment for Marsh fire fighters.

Eighteen months ago New Romney and Lydd stations received equipment and training.