Huge search operation to find missing man on Southend seafront

A coastguard helicopter was used to search a large area of Southend seafront on Wednesday night.

There was a large emergency services response across the seafront, particularly in the Old Leigh area.

The Coastguard helicopter crew and Essex Police were searching for a missing person who they said they’re “extremely concerned” about.

The RNLI’s hovercraft was also searching the same area, due to it being low tide. Coastguard ground teams were searching the shoreline for the missing man. At least eight Coastguard officers are present with high power torches.

Shortly after 4:40pm, Wednesday 24 July, police were alerted to a man who was wearing blue shorts, a white short-sleeved shirt and a baseball cap had undressed, and left his belongings behind, before walking towards the water wearing tighter-fitting black and white shorts.

The man did not return to collect his belongings and no further sightings of him were reported. Police said they were extremely concerned for his welfare and widespread searches began.

UPDATE 23:20: Ather a huge search effort, the Coastguard rescue helicopter went to Southend Airport to refuel.

UPDATE 01:00: It’s been confirmed that the man has been found safe and well after a 6-hour long search. All search teams have been stood down.

Well done to all the teams involved and their intensive search efforts.