TWO men were rescued from the North-Sea after a kayak capsized.

Life boats were scrambled at 1.40pm on Saturday following a 999 call from a member of the public who reported seeing two men in the water around 100 yards off the North End of Tynemouth Long Sands beach.

The men were next to an overturned kayak and appeared to be having difficulty making their way back to shore.

A lifeboat brought the men and their kayak back to safety.

Peter Lilley, of Tynemouth Volunteer life Brigade said: “Once ashore they confirmed that they did not require any medical assistance and explained that they had both been out in kayaks when they had got into difficulties due to the challenging sea conditions.

“One of the men managed to swim his kayak ashore before he went back into the sea to help his friend.

“However, the pair were unable to get the second kayak back to land and were grateful for the help they received.”