Migrant crisis: At least five dead after drowning in English Channel overnight

A huge French rescue effort swung into operation, with French maritime vessels, a helicopter and emergency services combing the beach area at Wimereux.

Four of the five bodies were recovered from the water. A number of other migrants have been treated for the effects of the cold, after being thrown into the freezing water.

The head of the French rescue operation Nicolas Leclet said: "At least four young adults of Syrian and Iraqi nationality have lost their lives."

French media report that more than 70 migrants were taken to the village hall in Wimereux.

This morning a fifth body was discovered by a local out walking on the beach near the French port, according to the sub-prefect of Boulogne, Patrick Lévérino.

Those rescued will be transferred to Calais by bus later this morning.

Last night's tragedy followed another rescue yesterday, in which two migrants fell from an overloaded small boat in the same area.

The two recused were taken back to shore, but another 68 people on board the small boat refused the help of French authorities and continued their journey to the UK.

That boat reached UK waters yesterday afternoon, and the 68 people on board were taken to Dover harbour by a Border Force vessel.

They were among at least 150 migrants to arrive in Dover yesterday, the first migrant arrivals of 2024, after bad weather prevented crossings for more almost a month.

GB News can reveal that a further two migrant boats arrived in UK waters early this morning, with at least 100 people aboard the boats brought to Dover by Border Force vessels.

GB News Kent producer said conditions in the Channel at the moment are "on the edge of what is achievable" in terms of attempting to make the crossing.

"The winds are just about passable, but the waves are still very choppy, and these boats are packed to the gunnels."

He added: "If anyone ends up in the water, their chances of survival are limited, given the absolutely freezing conditions out there.

"Sadly, I think we're going to see even more drownings in the Channel in the weeks ahead, as these callous criminals push boats out with little care for the safety of those on board."