Search halted after reports of person swept out to sea in Largs

Police have issued a description of a man believed to be have been swept out to sea in North Ayrshire during stormy weather.

The white man in his 20s, who was dressed all in black, is thought to have gone into the water at about 00:01 after large waves struck the coast around Burnlea Road in Largs.

The coastguard confirmed that a helicopter and aeroplane were sent in response, as well as rescue teams from Largs and Ardrossan, and RNLI lifeboats from Largs and Troon.

A spokesperson said no-one was found after an extensive search and searches were suspended at about 09:00, pending any new information.

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Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service also attended and emergency services said inquiries to trace the man were ongoing.

He is described as a white male in his 20s, tall, of slim build with no facial hair, dressed in all black with a black jacket and hood up.

Two men, who are believed to be potential witnesses, were seen in the area around the time the man went into the water.

The first is described as a white male with ginger hair and beard, wearing a black puffa jacket, blue trousers, and white trainers.

The second is described as a white male wearing a black jacket, blue trousers, dark-coloured trainers with a light-coloured heel and a dark-coloured Trapper hat.

Insp Martin Fraser, of Police Scotland, said: "Extensive inquiries are ongoing to trace the man seen in the water and establish his identity.

"We are appealing for anyone with information which could assist our investigation, including private CCTV or dashcam footage, to please come forward.

"We would particularly urge the two men who were in the area around midnight to please get in touch as they may have seen the unidentified man or have information that could help us."

Much of the west of Scotland was struck by severe weather during Storm Boelo at the weekend, with Largs affected by heavy flooding.

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) previously warned that weather conditions posed a safety risk in coastal areas and advised "extreme caution" if people were near the shoreline, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

A yellow wind warning, covering most of the country as well as parts of northern England and Northern Ireland, is currently in place until 21:00.

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