Fears for Southend swimmer as clothes found

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

The Coastguard, RNLI and police marine unit launched a major search along the coast off Southend, Essex, at 11.30am yesterday.

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.

PA