Fears were growing today for a missing 26-year-old Portland man.

David Knight has not seen by his family since 8.30pm on Sunday.

Police and coastguards scoured Portland, the Ferrybridge area of Wyke Regis and The Fleet after some of his possessions, including a mobile phone, were found on Chesil Beach yesterday at midday by a member of public.

They also said Mr Knight, who is a telephone operator, failed to turn up to work yesterday morning.

Police said they were continuing their inquiries into Mr Knight's disappearance today.

Portland Coastguard's rescue helicopter Whisky Bravo was scrambled yesterday to help police look for Mr Knight, who is from Portland and lives with his parents.

Coastguards and more than 20 police officers also searched for Mr Knight on foot and by boat for a number of hours.

Rescue helicopter Whisky Bravo and coastguards were diverted around 3.20pm after a six-year-old Portland boy became trapped between two rocks in Chesil Cove, Portland.

Police said they are becoming increasingly worried about Mr Knight's safety.

A police spokesman said: "We are continuing with our inquiries into Mr Knight's disappearance but were are not treating it as suspicious."

Portland Coastguard watch manager Jim Anderson said today: "We helped carry out an extensive sea and air search for Mr Knight yesterday.

"Mr Knight's disappearance is in the hands of the police and if they require our assistance today we will be more than happy to oblige."

Inspector Tony Rudd, of Weymouth Police, said: "Mr Knight's family are becoming increasingly concerned for his welfare. I would appeal to David or anyone who has seen him in the last 24 hours to contact us urgently."

Inspector Rudd added that Mr Knight is described as being 5ft 9in to 5ft 10in tall, of medium build, with a shaven head, tanned complexion and brown eyes.

If anyone sees Mr Knight or knows his whereabouts they should contact police on (01305) 767474.