BREAKING NEWS Child is missing in the Thames as RNLI, Coastguard helicopter and police boats launch major search
A major search operation has been launched after reports two children got into difficulty in the River Thames.
One child has been recovered from the water but the search continues for a second youngster, according to Coastguard officials.
An RNLI lifeboat, coastguard helicopter as well as police boats are involved in the operation after the alarm was raised this afternoon at Gravesend, Kent.
An HM Coastguard spokesman said: 'HM Coastguard is responding to a report of two children in difficulty in the water near the Royal Terrace Pier, Gravesend.
'The alarm was raised at about 1.35pm on 30 May. One child has been recovered and the search is ongoing for a second.
' Metropolitan Police boats are attending as well as the RNLI lifeboat from Gravesend, Kent
'Police, and a police helicopter. South East Coast Ambulance Service was sent.'
A Kent Police spokesperson said: 'Kent Police was called by the Port of London Authority at 1.46pm on Friday to concerns for the welfare of two people who had entered the river at Royal Pier Road, Gravesend.
'Officers, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, the RNLI and South East Coast Ambulance Service are currently at the scene where enquiries and a search are underway.'
A SECAmb spokesperson said: 'SECAmb were called at approx. 1.40pm today to concerns for the welfare of two people who had entered the river at Royal Pier Road in Gravesend.
'Crews attended the scene, and a male patient was assessed and treated before being taken to a local hospital for further medical treatment.'
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