At its shortest point, a stretch of water just over 20 miles long separates the UK from France. But the short distance belies the danger the English Channel presents.
Today, a 16-year-old from Sudan was found on a beach in Sangatte, his body washed up after his makeshift boat capsized. It is believed he was trying to cross the water to the UK. His friend, suffering from hypothermia, was the one who alerted the police.
More than 4,000 people have made the perilous journey. The Home Secretary Priti Patel says they are being exploited by people smugglers.
