SWIMMERS were rescued from the icy seas off Harwich early this morning.
The coastguard, the RAF search and rescue team, police and paramedics were called to the harbour at around 6am after receiving reports that two people were in the water.
The RAF helicopter crew used infrared cameras to search the sea.
A spokesman said: “We found two men bobbing around mid-channel within the harbour.
“We contacted the coastguard and directed them to our position and they rescued the men.”
Both men were wearing wetsuits but this proved no protection against the sub-zero temperatures and they were suffering from hyperthermia.
They have been taken to hospital for further treatment.
Five people have been arrested on suspicion of drug offences.
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