Emergency services are thanking those who have helped in the search for six-year-old Lucas Dobson, as people continue looking today.

The alarm was first raised at 1.20pm on Saturday after Lucas fell between the jetty and a boat on the River Stour near Richborough Road.

Following a briefing at the town fire station this morning, the search has now resumed with the help of scores of volunteers.

Lucas remains missing, with the fire service, the coastguard and volunteers from Kent Search and Rescue all working together to find him.

A specialist diving team are also searching the river.

Superintendent Amanda Tillotson of Kent Police said: "I would once again like to thank those members of the public who are helping to search for Lucas.

"This goes to all those people who assisted over the weekend and to those who’ve shown up again today.

"Everyone is working tirelessly to ensure we have every possibility covered.

"There has been an overwhelming response to the incident, with people coming to help from far and wide – including outside of our county.

"For this we are extremely grateful and we continue to use all resources available to us.

"Lucas’ family have asked me to extend their sincere thanks to everyone who has and continues to help find him."

All those helping are asked to adhere to the safety advice provided during the briefings.

The main points being to keep clear of the rivers' edge, stay on the main tracks, work in groups and to always be equipped with a phone and torch, especially those continuing the search into the night.

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