The RNLI is warning beach-goers about buying "cheap" inflatable paddleboards and kayaks following a rise in emergencies involving them.

Sheerness Lifeboat Station is concerned about people using them on Sheppey's beaches after the lower priced water sports items were seen being sold at a Tesco.

A £69 one-man kayak, a £25 blow-up dinghy, a £99 two-seater kayak and two types of inflatable paddle boards ranging around £200 were spotted at the supermarket's store in Faversham, near Faversham Creek – a £30 children’s life jacket was also available.

Island RNLI spokesman Vic Booth said: "With most of the major stores selling these items relatively cheaply there has been a massive increase in crews being called out to an increasing number of incidents.

"With the warmer weather, people buy these items with no prior knowledge of the hazards involved when taking them afloat, not only that, a large percentage take to the water with no safety equipment or means of calling for help if the need arises.

"Sadly, things can change in rapid time around our coastline with idyllic conditions one minute and people in serious trouble the next. With the strong tidal currents, any type of craft can be taken out to sea in a matter of minutes."

Last July an adult and two children, who were rescued from a drifting inflatable, were among eight call-outs in one day for Margate’s lifeboat crew.

A mum also spoke of her horror after her son was swept a mile out to sea off Dungeness.

These are just a couple of incidents that happened within the last nine months.

However, from 2012 to 2021 the number of lives saved following RNLI launches to paddle board incidents went up 64%.

Mr Booth continued: “With the warmer weather hopefully on its way, the Sheerness RNLI Lifeboat crews and the RNLI Lifeguards expect to be kept busy, especially in regard to the huge increase in the number of inflatable kayaks and paddle boards being seen around our coast.

“Stand-up paddle boarding is one of the fastest-growing water sports.

“However, whether you are a complete beginner or more experienced, it’s always useful to know a few tips and tricks to help improve your experience.”

Tesco told KentOnline it complies with the legal requirements for instructions for use and safety information for these products.

It recently changed its paddle board labelling to add clearer safety details, in association with British Canoeing.

It also sells a range of life jackets for adults, children and dogs.

Mr Booth further warned: “If people can go with a friend, they can help if you get into difficulty. But if you are going out alone, always tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back.

“If you’re bringing your phone to take some photos make sure you keep it in a waterproof pouch. That way it won’t get wet, and you can use it to call for help in an emergency too.”

The RNLI also stresses the importance of checking the weather forecast and tide times before you set out.