PORTLAND coastguards coordinated a search for a man believed to have fallen into a Dorset river.

Portland coastguard helicopter was also involved in the search yesterday evening.

The search began at 7pm after reports that a man had fallen into the River Stour near Iford Bridge, Christchurch.

The Portland Coastguard ops room, based on Weymouth harbourside, coordinated the search, sending out coastguard rescue teams to help in the search and tasking local lifeboats.

Portland helicopter used its infrared camera to try and pick up any sign of the missing man.

On Thursday morning Dorset Police, Dorset Fire and Rescue teams and the police helicopter resumed the search.

Specialist wading teams are currently doing a search of the river.

Inspector Shaun Cronin, Dorset Police’s search advisor, said: “Once this is completed there is no further search activity we can do unless more information comes to light.”

Dorset Police are investigating the incident and are keen to hear from a woman who was seen by eyewitnesses having an altercation with a man on the bridge.

Inspector Pete Little, of Bournemouth and Poole CID, said: “A witness at the scene has reported seeing an altercation between a man and a woman. The woman is seen to leave and it is possible that subsequent to this a man has fallen into the river.

“I am appealing for this woman to contact Dorset Police immediately.

“I would also urge anyone with any information about this incident or who may have seen a man and woman in the area at the time to call 101.

“The search and rescue units worked in very challenging conditions with rain and strong winds, but were unable to find any sign of a missing man.”