These pictures show the rescue operation, with children having to be carried into waiting ambulances and struggling people being helped onto land after a treacherous crossing of the Channel.
According to Sussex Police, they will be taken into the custody and care of the Home Office after being safely brought onto land in Eastbourne.
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Several children were among those rescued SUS-210901-172755001 Photo: eddie mitchell
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Dozens of people were rescued from a stranded boat Photo: eddie mitchell
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Young children were among those rescued SUS-210901-165743001 Photo: eddie mitchell
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Young children were among those rescued SUS-210901-165753001 Photo: eddie mitchell
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Young children were among those rescued SUS-210901-165808001 Photo: eddie mitchell
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Dozens of people were rescued from a stranded boat Photo: eddie mitchell
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Emergency services on the scene SUS-210901-173600001 Photo: eddie mitchell
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Young children were among those rescued SUS-210901-165910001 Photo: eddie mitchell
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Dozens of people were rescued SUS-210901-171314001 Photo: Pete Abel
. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Dozens of people were rescued SUS-210901-171530001 Photo: Pete Abel
9. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Dozens of people were rescued SUS-210901-171530001 Photo: Pete Abel
10. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Dozens of people were rescued SUS-210901-171716001 Photo: Pete Abel
11. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Dozens of people were rescued SUS-210901-172715001 Photo: Pete Abel
12. Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne
Emergency services on the scene SUS-210901-173427001 Photo: eddie mitchell