A large-scale search is ongoing in Sunderland as emergency services scour the River Wear for a man seen fall into the water. 

RNLI lifeboats, a coastguard helicopter, and police have been searching since 5pm yesterday afternoon (Saturday, April 6), when concerns were raised for the welfare of two men spotted in the water. 

They were seen in the River Wear, near Panns Bank in Sunderland.

It is reported that a man entered the water near Sunderland University accommodation, and was followed by another man in a rescue attempt.

By the time the emergency service arrived on the scene, the second man had got out of the water by himself. 

The first man is still missing, 24 hours after the search began. 

This weekend, the North East has been hit with high winds and difficult conditions, which emergency services have had to contend with. 

Because of strong winds, rescue teams have extended the search out to the sea, with boats looking as far out as South Shields. 

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Shortly after 5pm on Saturday, April 6, we received a report of concern for two males who were seen in the River Wear near to Panns Bank in Sunderland.

“Emergency services were deployed to the scene where one of the men had brought himself out of the water.

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device by subscribing to The Northern Echo here. 

“Officers and partner agencies currently remain in the area to carry out enquiries and to locate the second man.

“We would ask the public not to gather in order to allow for those at the scene to carry out their duties.

“Anyone with information which could assist is asked to get in touch with police via 101 quoting reference NP-20240406-0796. In an emergency, always dial 999.”