The family of a man missing for almost a day after going for a swim in The Swale say they "fear the worst" as they appeal for information to find him.

Mark Green was last seen yesterday on the banks of the river at Harty Ferry, near Faversham, by two walkers who engaged him in conversation.

But the concerned women alerted police a short while later after spotting the father-of-two's possessions still on the shore.

What followed has been an extensive search of the area involving helicopters, drones, rescue teams and dozens of emergency workers.

Mr Green's stepson, Nicky Gazard-Smith, says the family is praying for his safe return.

"My mum is hoping he'll just walk through the door and wonder what all the fuss has been about," he told KentOnline.

"We're praying he's made it to Sheerness and has been wandering around, or at least got onto a bank somewhere and is safe.

"We're hoping for the best, but fear the worst."

The alarm was raised shortly after 4pm yesterday after Mr Green's belongings - including his mobile phone - were found at the remote location on the edge of Oare Marshes.

It sparked a huge emergency response, which saw a number of ambulances, police cars, and coastguard teams sent to the popular beauty spot.

Mr Gazard-Smith, 52, says his mother, Eileen Green, had told him his stepfather has been swimming there for about a week.

"He's always loved running but we've not know him to be much of a swimmer," he said.

"He has a shoulder injury which he still needs to get fixed, which is a bit of a worry.

"The women who saw him said he was in a jubbly mood, which sounds just like him. He loves to talk.

"We know the police are doing everything they can to find him, but just hope someone might recognise him and has seen him since yesterday.

"My mum is just after some hope to cling to."

Police and coastguard crews remain at the scene, which has been cordoned off at the end of Church Road, blocking access to the bird reserve car park.

Search crews can be seen about 500 metres away from the blockade, wearing luminous jackets as they scour the waterside.

A police spokesman said: "At present, there is no update. Inquiries to locate the missing man are ongoing."

If you've seen Mr Green, who lives in Ivory Close, Faversham, call police on 101.

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham