A search and rescue operation in Hastings was stood down after debris found in the English Channel was found to be a month old.

HM Coastguard coordinated a response after reports were received that parts of a vessel were found in waters south of the East Sussex resort town. The alarm was raised at about 8.45am today.

A search and rescue helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft were sent to the area, as well as the RNLI's all-weather lifeboat from Hastings. However, in an update shortly before 12.30pm today, it emerged that the operation was stood down.

An investigation found the parts were from a sailing vessel that went aground at Seaford Head, East Sussex, on 19 April. Both people on board made it to land safely at the time..