Search teams spent 13 hours scouring the Thames Estuary after reports of someone in the water.

The huge operation involved two HM Coastguard helicopters, which were spotted in the air over the coast of Sheppey, as well as RNLI lifeboats from both Sheerness and Southend.

A report had been received of a person in difficulty in the sea off Southend Pier at around 1.30pm yesterday (May 27).

Coastguard Rescue Teams were sent from Southend, Canvey Island and South Woodham Ferrers and Essex Police were also alerted.

However, nobody was found in distress or had been reported missing after the 13-hour search.

The operation was stood down at around 2.40am today (May 28) pending any new information.