Christchurch: Search For Missing Fisherman

17 September 2014, 13:21

The Coastguard are trying to find a fisherman who they think may've gone missing from Christchurch.

Police were called this morning when a dog-walker found fishing gear abandoned near Mudeford Quay.

Lifeboat and helicopter crews are involved in a search.

A Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) statement said:

'This morning (Wednesday 17 September), Dorset Police reported that some high quality fishing tackle had apparently been abandoned on the steeply shelving beach at the entrance to Christchurch Harbour – leading to concerns that the angler may have entered the water and got into difficulties. The equipment was discovered by a dog-walker at 6:30am.

'The Mudeford lifeboat, Southbourne Coastguard Rescue Team, the Lee-on-Solent search and rescue helicopter and the police have all been involved in a so far fruitless search.'

Watch Officer at Portland Coastguard, Becky Clarke, said: 

“The fact that some expensive fishing tackle has simply been left on the beach has raised fears that an angler has possibly gone into the water.

“We are appealing to anyone who thinks that they are this angler – or knows who it might be - to please get in touch with the Coastguard urgently by calling 999.”