Missing teenager believed to be dead after kayak capsized off Northumberland coast

Police searching for a 19-year-old man missing after a canoe capsized off the Northumberland coast now believe he is dead.

Northumbria Police confirmed the teenager was one of two people on the ship that capsized near Boulmer on Tuesday evening.

One of the men managed to reach the buoy and was subsequently rescued by the coastguard.

A force spokesman said: “Searches were launched immediately and supported by officers to locate and locate the second man, aged 19.

“These efforts are ongoing but unfortunately the man is now believed to have tragically died.”

Just after 9.15pm the coast guard alerted police that there was a man in the water.

Chief Inspector Jon Caisley said on Wednesday: “This is a very tragic incident and our thoughts are with the man’s loved ones at this time.”

Mr Caisley said: “Searches are continuing but due to the challenging conditions we are unable to give any timeline for our efforts to rescue the man.”

The incident comes as emergency services are once again warning of the dangers of the open sea as temperatures rise in the UK and extreme weather moves northwards.

Back-to-back heat waves in May and June caused more than 20 people to die after entering the water.

Inspector Andy Blizard, of Cheshire Police, said: “While it may be tempting to dive into open water in hot weather, it is important people are aware of the potentially fatal consequences.

“Entering the water can endanger not only your own life, but also the lives of those around you who jump into the water to save you.

“We don’t want to stop people from having fun by the water, but it’s important to remember that the surface can be deceiving.

“Strong currents, sudden temperature drops, rashes, and even illness can lurk just a few feet below. Cold water shock can affect even the strongest swimmers, and these unseen dangers can quickly turn a quick dive into a dangerous situation.”

Mr Blizard said: “The message to our communities is clear: Don’t risk your life by cooling off in open water.”

Station manager Ryan Swindells, of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Sadly, we have seen a number of water-related tragedies across the country this summer.

“If you want to stay calm, we always encourage people to choose regulated locations rather than taking risks offshore.”