A LIFEBOAT station has launched an appeal to return a kite surf equipment to its owner.

Harwich RNLI launched its inshore lifeboat last Sunday, at about 11.35am, after a kite surfer was thought to be in difficulty off Bawdsey, in Suffolk.

Walton and Frinton lifeboat was also diverted from a training exercise to assist.

A kite was recovered from the water, but the owner and board were not located.

After receiving reports saying the owner was seen coming ashore without a kite both lifeboats were stood down.

Daniel Sime, press officer at Harwich RNLI, said reports of an individual coming ashore are positive.

He added: “The lifeboat crews recovered the kite to avoid the alarm being raised again, and to prevent it presenting a danger to navigation for small vessels.

“If you ever become separated from your craft, large or small, even if you are safe and well, informing the coastguard when you are in a position to do so, helps put minds at ease, and such information is always gratefully received.”