The search for a diver missing off Portland has been called off.

All the lifeboats involved have returned to base.

A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said they would not be releasing any further details on the incident and the matter was in the hands of the police.

A major search and rescue effort was launched after the diver failed to rendezvous with the dive boat.

The dive vessel was located approximately two nautical miles south east of the Portland Bill.

A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said earlier today: "HM Coastguard has been responding to reports of a missing diver off Portland today.

"Alerted at around 10am, Coastguard helicopters and lifeboats from Weymouth, Exmouth and Swanage have been sent to conduct searches of the area. Vessels in the vicinity of the area have also been assisting with the search."