*FOUND*: Police, HM Coastguard, the Coastguard Rescue Helicopter and Cowes RNLI Lifeboat are all involved in the search for a missing father and son near Cowes tonight (Saturday).
Sam Chiverton and his son Ronnie have not been seen since 09:00 this morning, when it is said they left their home in Newport with an arrangement to meet Ronnie’s mother at 15:00. They failed to show.
Family and friends have described the situation as out of character and say they are very concerned as no one has seen or heard from the pair all day.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has confirmed a search is underway for 2 missing persons after being alerted at around 22:30.
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team, The Needles Coastguard Rescue Team and Coastguard Rescue 175 helicopter have all been tasked to the incident, alongside Cowes RNLI lifeboat.
Coastguard teams are currently conducting a search along the shore between Cowes and Gurnard.
UPDATE @ 00:30 – The Coastguard helicopter has conducted a low and slow search along the coast, with Cowes RNLI moving their search down to Thorness Bay and onwards to Newtown.
Ventnor Coastguard Rescue Team have now left Egypt Point.
UPDATE @ 00:46 – The MCA have issued an appeal for information.
It has been confirmed that the father and son were last seen in a silver Mazda Bongo campervan, going out for a day’s fishing.
Anyone who knows of the whereabouts of the man and boy should dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
UPDATE @ 00:56 – The family of the missing father and son have confirmed the pair have been found safe and well near Niton.
The search operation has now been concluded, with Cowes RNLI lifeboat and Coastguard Rescue 175 appearing to be returning to station.
UPDATE @ 12:45 – It has now been confirmed that the 29-year-old man and his 6-year-old son were found near St Catherine’s on the South side of the Island. The initial search at Gurnard was undertaken as HM Coastguard were informed it is the father’s favourite shoreline for fishing.
Due to the remote location of St Catherine’s, the father’s mobile phone wasn’t working and therefore no one was able to get in touch with him. When discovered, the young boy was fast asleep in the family campervan.
Thanks to everyone who shared this appeal on social media
