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.’