Search For Missing Kayaker Off Southampton

A search is continuing for a kayaker who has gone missing off the coast of Southampton.

The Coastguard helicopter, rescue teams and lifeboats are looking for Stephen Taylor, who went kayaking at 11.30am yesterday and did not return as expected.

The 54-year-old of Gosport had intended to paddle from Lee-on-Solent to Lepe beach in the Southampton area.

An experienced canoeist, he was in touch with his partner throughout the day but she alerted police when he failed to return home late in the evening.

He is thought to have been wearing a wetsuit, light blue long-sleeved top, navy blue life jacket with a red detail and a beige sun hat.

It is believed there may have been a sighting of Mr Taylor at around 10.50pm last night by a passing vessel.

A police spokesman said: "HM Coastguard is leading the search operation. An area has been cordoned off in Salterns Lane, Hill Head, to assist the search. We would advise members of the public to avoid the area where possible."

Anyone with information that may assist in locating Mr Taylor should contact police on 101.