A large-scale emergency response ensued at Sovereign Harbour following reports of ‘small boat activity’, according to the Coastguard.
Border Force officers, police, and the RNLI joined the Coastguard in the operation.
A spokesperson for the Coastguard said: "HM Coastguard sent a UK Border Force vessel and an RNLI lifeboat in response to small boat activity reported in the Channel on 29 December.
"People were safely recovered to Eastbourne."
Eastbourne RNLI confirmed its all-weather lifeboat was tasked to the incident at about 1.28pm.
1. Eastbourne crews rescue people from 'small boat' in English Channel
Photo from the scene Photo: Sussex News and Pictures
2. Eastbourne crews rescue people from 'small boat' in English Channel
Photo from the scene Photo: Sussex News and Pictures
3. Eastbourne crews rescue people from 'small boat' in English Channel
Photo from the scene Photo: Sussex News and Pictures
4. Eastbourne crews rescue people from 'small boat' in English Channel
Photo from the scene Photo: Sussex News and Pictures
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