A major search was launched last night (November 13) after reports of an elderly man on the sea wall at Meadfoot beach in Torquay.

Police and Coastguard were called around 9.30pm when the man, thought to be dressed in a nightgown, was seen at the wall for a few seconds and then disappeared.

There was concern that the man may have fallen into the the rough sea which was near high tide at the time. However the person may have simply walked away from the sea.

A search was launched involving the Coastguard, lifeboats and both the police helicopter and an air sea rescue helicopter from RMB Chivenor in North Devon.

No person has been located in the sea or nearby despite an extensive search.

A decision on continuing the search will be made this morning in conjunction with the Coastguard.