Southend: Fears For Missing Swimmer

31 August 2012, 08:38 | Updated: 31 August 2012, 08:42

Police are trying to contact the family of a man believed to be missing at sea after his clothes were found on a beach in Southend.

The Coastguard, RNLI and police marine unit launched a major search along the coast off Southend at 11.30am yesterday (Thursday August 30th).

An RAF helicopter was deployed along with two lifeboats and a police boat after members of the public spotted a man in difficulty in the water.

Clothing and personal items were found nearby.

But a Coastguard spokesman said: "After a comprehensive search nothing was found and units were stood down.''

Police say the items found belong to a 52-year-old man from London and officers are trying to locate his next of kin.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at Southend on 101.