Volunteers from Cowes RNLI have joined a large search and rescue operation currently underway in the Solent area tonight (Saturday).
The inshore lifeboat has launched from Cowes to join Calshot RNLI and Gosport Independent Lifeboat in conducting an on-the-water sweep between the Isle of Wight and the mainland.
Meanwhile, Coastguard Rescue 175 helicopter and the National Police Air Service helicopter are both conducting aerial searches in the vicinity of Lee-on-Solent.
It’s thought that search and rescue teams are looking for a person in the water.
Areas of Lee-on-Solent have been cordoned off by police.
UPDATE SUNDAY 12:10 – Assets stood down from the search shortly before midnight.
In the multi-agency search, Cowes Lifeboat joined Calshot Lifeboat, Gosport & Fareham Inshore Lifeboat, Portsmouth Coastguard Rescue Team, Hill Head Coastguard Rescue Team, Hampshire Constabulary, National Police Air Service Helicopter from Bournemouth, Coastguard Rescue 175 Helicopter, Hampshire Search & Rescue and Hampshire Search & Rescue Dogs.
After around 8 hours searching in near-freezing temperatures, crews were stood down and returned to their home stations.
Hampshire Constabulary has now released a missing person appeal for a missing Lee-on-Solent gentleman.
The appeal has now been removed.
UPDATE SUNDAY 18:55 – The body, thought to be that of the missing Lee-on-Solent man, has been found at the entrance to Cowes Harbour this evening (Sunday).
Read more following the link below.
Good luck guys and I hope you find this person very soon.
Hope search ends with good result stay safe all involved