Emergency responders rush to Bedford after reports of man in river

Emergency responders have rushed to Bedford after receiving witness reports about a man spotted in the water of the River Great Ouse.

Bedfordshire Police announced officers were at the scene at 11:22am this morning (3 March).

Paramedics are also in place to assist alongside the fire service and search and rescue teams, Bedfordshire Police confirms.

A rescue boat and sleds, reach poles and underwater camera were used in the search.

A Bedfordshire Police spokesman said: "Officers are currently in attendance at The Embankment following reports of a concern for safety.

"We were called at around 9.25am following reports from a member of the public of a man in the water.

"Officers are assisting colleagues from the ambulance service and fire service.

"A search is currently underway."

If you have any information please call 101.

A spokesman for the fire and rescue service said: "At 9.26am we received reports of an elderly male in the water at the Swan Hotel, Bedford.

"We worked with the Police and Hart to provide multi-agency support.

"We undertook a methodical grid search around his last known location. Water technicians were deployed to the water along with a rescue boat, rescue sleds, reach poles and an underwater camera.

"At around 12pm we ceased searching and the incident was handed over to the Police."