A major search operation for a diver who disappeared off the coast of Hastings has been officially called off, following an intensive 24-hour air and sea effort by emergency services. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the RNLI confirmed that all efforts to locate the diver, who failed to resurface on Saturday, concluded without success.

The alarm was raised at lunchtime on Saturday, and extensive searches were conducted by coastguard crews, lifeboats, and air assets including a coastguard helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft. Despite the comprehensive response, which also saw participation from other vessels in the vicinity, no trace of the diver was found. The operation was eventually stood down at 11pm on Saturday.

This incident marks the second diver disappearance off the south coast in recent days, coming shortly after the search for 20-year-old Emily Sherwin. Emily, described by her family as a vibrant and passionate individual, went missing while diving near Old Harry Rocks off Swanage in Dorset. Despite a large-scale search effort involving coastguards, helicopters, over 30 lifeboats, and police, no evidence of her whereabouts was uncovered.

Emily’s family released a statement expressing their devastation and gratitude for the years spent with her, highlighting her love for the sea and aspirations in marine conservation.

Authorities have yet to release further details about the diver involved in the Hastings incident. The back-to-back disappearances have cast a shadow over the diving community, prompting calls for increased safety measures.

Sussex Police and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding these incidents and have been asked to provide further comments on the matter.