Jump to content IndependentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our app AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleA major rescue operation is underway [stock image] (AFP/Getty)A major rescue operation is underway in the English Channel after a boat carrying migrants caught fire. At least 157 people have been rescued from the vessel, which was attempting to cross the Channel near Boulogne-sur-Mer. Rescuers from both the UK and France are assisting in the operation. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency confirmed a vessel caught fire in the French search and rescue region. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) launched its Eastbourne all-weather boat around 6am on Tuesday morning to assist. In fullMajor rescue operation underway as boat catches fire in ChannelMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

The Eastbourne lifeboat was launched at 6am today alongside French and British coastguard vessels after the boat's engine caught fire in French waters. File photo.

A major rescue operation is underway after a boat has caught fire in the English Channel.