A MULTI-AGENCY search has resumed for a diver who went missing off Lulworth Cove last night.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said the diver was reported missing off the the coast of Lulworth in Purbeck at about 8.15pm on Saturday.

A search involving coastguard rescue teams, RNLI crews, police and a search and rescue helicopter from Newquay was launched.

Efforts are underway to inform the man’s next of kin, who live abroad. 

Dorset Police said it was called at 8.40pm last night by HM Coastguard to reports that a man had gone missing at around 4.15pm while diving off the coast of Lulworth Cove. 

The search was suspended overnight due to low light before resuming again this morning.

Chief Inspector Gavin House, of Dorset Police, said: “HM Coastguard, the RNLI and officers from Dorset Police, including specially-trained marine officers, have been carrying out extensive searches well into the early hours of this morning. We are continuing to work with our partners at HM Coastguard to search for him. 

“We would like to hear for anyone who was out on the water in the area and may have any information that could assist us.”

A spokesman for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: "At approximately 8.15pm yesterday (7 August), HM Coastguard received a report of a missing diver in Lulworth Cove.

"Coastguard rescue teams from Lulworth, Kimmeridge and Wyke were sent alongside Weymouth RNLI, the search and rescue helicopter from Lee-on-Solent and Dorset Police to conduct a search. The search is ongoing."

Updates to follow.