Portland Coastguard have been coordinating a search this evening for a man who is believed to have fallen into the River Stour near Iford Bridge, Christchurch.

The search began at 7.00 pm and since then the Southbourne Coastguard Rescue Team, the Portland Coastguard Rescue helicopter with its forward looking infrared (FLIR) camera, Mudeford RNLI inshore lifeboat, the Wick ferry, Dorset Police and Dorset Fire and Rescue Service have been searching the river, its banks and surrounding area.

Jennet Chisholm, Portland Coastguard watch manager says:

All the rescue units are working in very challenging conditions with rain and strong winds, but so far have been unable to find any sign of a missing man.