Diver still missing despite extensive search

A search and rescue operation carried out to find a diver who went missing near Swanage will not be resumed this morning.

Despite a major search across a ten mile area after a call to the UK Coastguard from the dive vessel Emma J, the man hasn’t been found.

The search was suspended last night and discussions held overnight to decide what to do next.

Tristam Newey, National Maritime Operations Commander said, ‘This hasn’t been an easy decision to make. This man is still missing and we appreciate the concern and worry this is causing his family and friends.’

‘We used many resources yesterday to make an extensive search of an area covering 10 square nautical miles. The search and rescue helicopter from Portland and then from Lee-on-Solent carried out a comprehensive search from the air and the lifeboats from Poole and Swanage did an equally thorough job on the sea.’

‘In the early hours of this morning yachts taking part in the Myth of Malham race passed through the area that we searched yesterday. We asked all to keep a look out for this diver but nothing was seen.

‘This morning in the absence of any further information we have decided not to resume the search. The family has been informed of this decision.’


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