Seven crew rescued from sinking vessel

The UK Coastguard has coordinated an extensive search and rescue effort tonight after a 90m cargo vessel sunk approximately 35 nautical miles north east of Ramsgate.

The UK Coastguard search and rescue helicopters from Lydd and Lee-on-Solent, the RNLI all-weather lifeboat from Ramsgate, a Dutch search and rescue helicopter and multiple merchant vessels have all assisted in the search and rescue effort.

Steve Carson, UK Coastguard Duty Commander said: "Following a MAYDAY broadcast from the sinking vessel, we sent multiple assets to the scene to rescue the crew who abandoned ship. The weather on scene has been challenging but we are pleased to report that all the crew have been rescued and are on their way to hospital."

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