THE Coastguard says there are “no further planned searches” for a kayaker who has been missing for more than 34 hours.
Crews were scrambled shortly after 10am yesterday morning after receiving reports of “a person seen going into the water from a kayak off Hove Lagoon near Brighton”.
An empty kayak and paddle were found on the shore nearby shortly afterwards.
Police, Coastguard and lifeboat crews launched a major search operation spanning more than eight hours.
Boats patrolled the shore and the rescue helicopter scoured the area from above as emergency teams attempted to locate the missing kayaker.
But, at 10.30pm yesterday, HM Coastguard released a statement saying that the search had been suspended at nightfall “pending further information”.
“An intensive eight-hour search of the area took place.”
HM Coastguard said “sadly the kayaker was not found despite a very intensive eight-hour search” but added that “the identity of the kayaker had been confirmed”.
In an update on the search efforts issued this afternoon, a representative for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency told The Aargus there were “no further planned searches taking place today”.
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The agency also issued a statement urging people looking to go kayaking or canoeing in the sea to take precautions to protect their welfare.
A spokesman said: “Ensure that someone at home knows your passage plan including points of arrival and departure, timescale, number in group and other relevant information.
“Check weather forecasts and tidal conditions and ensure that your skill levels are appropriate for where you are kayaking.
“Wear a buoyancy aid and check that equipment is functioning properly, that your distress flares are in date and are stowed where you can reach them. Carriage of a 406 Personal Locator Beacon is highly recommended for more remote locations.
“Carry a VHF marine band radio (fitted with DSC if possible) and learn how to use it. Where there is good network coverage then it is worth carrying a mobile phone in a waterproof bag. Call the Coastguard if you get into difficulty, preferably via channel 16 on your radio or if not by calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard.”
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