Man feared missing at sea is named

A man who is believed to be missing at sea after his clothes were found on a beach was today named by police as 52-year-old Stephen Jones.

The Coastguard, RNLI and police marine unit launched a major search along the coast off Southend, Essex, on Thursday after a member of the public spotted a man clinging to a buoy before vanishing.

An RAF helicopter was deployed along with two lifeboats and a police boat. Clothing and personal items belonging to Mr Jones were found nearby, Essex Police said.

The search was stood down on Thursday, according to the Coastguard.

Mr Jones is known to have led a nomadic life, moving from various hostels around the South East, police said.

His last known address was in south London.

Officers want to hear from anyone who might have seen Mr Jones in Southend before or since August 30 and have released a photograph of him.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101.

PA