FIVE children and 62 adults from sub-Saharan Africa were rescued today as they attempted to enter Tenerife on a jerry-built raft.

The would-be immigrants docked on the south coast of the island, where they were seen by a fisherman from his boat out in the sea near Amarilla Golf.

Authorities said the passengers all appeared to be in good health, despite their ordeal riding the open seas from Africa in a desperate bid to reach European soil and a better quality of life.

This is not a new situation for the Canary Islands, which are often chosen by African immigrants as the first port of call when heading to Spain on dangerous wooden rafts.

Many deaths and serious injuries are reported, both from drowning and overexposure.

A hard-hitting television campaign last year featuring singer Youssou N’Dour pleaded with Africa’s young people not to attempt the potentially fatal crossing.