Man traced in St Andrews May Day dip search after 'student' disappeared

A man has been traced after a huge emergency service response to reports of a "student' going missing during a traditional swim. Police Scotland officers were called to the scene in St Andrews at 7.50am on Wednesday along with the coastguard and RNLI.

Emergency service teams were called in from Prestwick, Broughty Ferry, Leven and St Andrews. A helicopter was pictured circling the area as lifeboat crews searched the waters, with several other vehicles parked on the shore.

The University of St Andrews confirmed it was not one of their students involved. Several hours later, the RNLI confirmed a man had been found.

A spokesman for the institution told the Record: "HM Coastguard responded to a report of concern for a man in the water off East Sands, St Andrews. The alarm was raised at about 7.50am on 1 May.

"The HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter was sent from Prestwick, as well as the RNLI's inshore and all-weather lifeboats from Broughty Ferry. Coastguard Rescue Teams from Leven and St Andrews supported on land. Police Scotland was also alerted.

"The man has been traced safe and well."

It's believed the man was taking part in the annual Gaudie dip, as hundreds braved freezing waters and a sea fog for a traditional May Day plunge.

For decades, the University of St Andrews has marked The Dip, which is supposed to cleanse any academic sins and bring good luck in the imminent exams.

Police Scotland were also contacted for comment.

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