One migrant has died another is critically injured in hospital after a dramatic rescue operation in the English Channel overnight.
The French coastguard was alerted just after 1am to reports that a migrant boat was sinking about 5 miles off Dunkirk.
One side of the boat was deflated, with dozens of migrants thrown into the water.
Five French vessels and the UK Coastguard helicopter have been involved in the rescue efforts.
In total, 66 people were rescued in the operation.
According to French authorities, one person succumbed to their injuries and could not be revived.
Another migrant was flown taken to hospital in Calais, but they are reported to be critically ill, in a life threatening condition.
A major air and sea search of the area about 5 miles off Gravelines beach is still underway this morning.
GB News Kent producer said that weather conditions were “difficult overnight with a few swells in the area.”
There is no indication yet as to why the inflatable began sinking.
The search operation includes a hunt for any other migrant boats that might still be in the area and attempting to cross into UK waters.
Enver Solomon, chief executive officer of the Refugee Council, said: “This is yet another terrible and avoidable tragedy. Our thoughts are with the victim, the survivors and their loved ones.
“These appalling deaths are becoming too common and there is an urgent need to put in place safe routes so people don’t have to take dangerous journeys across the world’s busiest shipping lane.
“Instead, the Government is pushing ahead with its unworkable and unprincipled Rwanda plan as well as shutting down existing safe ways to get to the UK.
“People flee persecution and violence out of desperation, to find safety and protect their families.
“The Government must take action now and respond in a compassionate way to prevent future tragedies and protect human life.”
