Canoe found in search for missing teenager

Met Police dive teams have joined the search for the missing canoeist

Police have confirmed they have recovered a canoe in the search for a teenager who went missing while on the water at the weekend.

A dive team from the Metropolitan Police has been helping with the underwater search for the 18-year-old on the Middle Level Main Drain in Wiggenhall St Germans, near King's Lynn.

Police were alerted by a member of the public after the canoe was seen to capsize at about 15:50 BST on Sunday, with the teen disappearing under the water.

Cordons are in place on the bridge footpath and riverbank while the search continues.

Divers have been searching the waters for the missing teen

Norfolk Police said sonar would continue to be used by the search teams, and emergency services are carrying out riverbank searches by foot in the area which is cordoned off.

A Lowland Search & Rescue team is on the scene and drones are also being used.

Det Chief Insp 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."

The stretch of water known as the Middle Level Main Drain was formed in the 17th Century to drain parts of the Fens.