Major search for two swimmers ‘in distress’ who went missing last night

Police and RNLI are searching (Picture: PlymouthLive/BPM)

Police and the RNLI have launched a major search after two swimmers were reported to be ‘in distress’ off the coast of Devon.

The two swimmers were seen in the water at West Hoe, Plymouth, at around 6pm on Monday evening.

Devon and Cornwall Police say they haven’t received any reports of missing people in the area, but they want to identify the two swimmers and make sure they’re safe and well.

HM Coastguard and Plymouth RNLI are also taking part in the search.

They’re asking anyone who was nearby ASH Buoy, a green channel marker buoy near to two restaurants, to get in touch if they saw anything last night.

Police say it’s possible that the two swimmers have returned to dry land and have no idea about the reports made about them last night.

Inspector Roger Hocking said last night: ‘We are asking members of the public to contact us if they were in the vicinity of ASH Buoy (a green channel marker buoy) near the Waterside/Wet Wok eateries and saw anything that could assist us in our enquiries. 

‘We are keen to identify the two swimmers and ensure they are safe and well. 

‘They could very well have returned to shore and would be unaware of the report made in good faith regarding their welfare.

‘We have not received any reports of missing people in the area.

‘If you are able to provide any information please call us quoting log 699 01/07/24.’

A HM Coastguard spokesman added: ‘HM Coastguard has been coordinating the response to reports of swimmers in difficulty in Plymouth Hoe toady (July 1).

‘Alerted just after 6.15pm, Plymouth and Tamar coastguard rescue teams have been sent to the scene, in addition to the HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter, Plymouth All-Weather Lifeboat and Plymouth Inshore Lifeboat.’

Metro.co.uk has contacted Devon and Cornwall Police and Plymouth RNLI for an update on the search

This is a developing news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

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