Dive team joins search for missing teenage boy who disappeared while canoeing in Wiggenhall St Germans

A specialist underwater search team has joined the search for a teenager who went missing while canoeing at the weekend.

Police were alerted by a member of the public after the 18-year-old’s canoe was seen capsizing on the Middle Level Main Drain in St Germans at around 3.49pm on Sunday and he disappeared underwater.

A dive team from the Metropolitan Police arrived yesterday afternoon to join in extensive search efforts by police, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, Lowland Rescue and drones.

Sonar will continue to be used by the specialist teams and emergency services are carrying out riverbank searches by foot in the area which is currently cordoned off.

Cordons are in place on the bridge footpath and riverbank while searches continue.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Banks said: “We are doing everything we can alongside other emergency services and will support those involved.

“Our thoughts are with the teenager’s family and friends who are going through a distressing time.

“We would ask the public to avoid the search area at this time and are grateful for your help.”