A boat bought by anti-migrant activist Daniel “Danny Tommo” Thomas to patrol the English Channel sank near Littlehampton, West Sussex, after apparent mechanical problems. The incident has prompted a fundraising appeal, while Thomas’s group, Patriot Platform, has been involved in recent anti-migrant disturbances in Dover and Portsmouth.

The vessel, named The Patriot, reportedly sank within weeks of its first use and required recovery by harbour officials. A GiveSendGo campaign has raised more than £20,000 for boats, marine equipment, fuel, accommodation and storage, while Thomas has alleged without evidence that left-wing activists might have tried to sabotage it. Thomas, a former soldier and convicted kidnapper, says the boat is being restored, although its current location is unknown.