A massive search operation is under way in Worcester following reports that a youth has gone missing in the river.

The Midlands Air Ambulance, firefighters and police, began searching the river Severn near Pitchcroft following numerous 999 calls at 3.30pm today.

Four fire engines and two boats are at the scene, with police officers cycling up and down the river banks.

Paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service have also been called and are waiting in Henwick Road as the search operation continues.

It is understood four male youths, all in their late teens, were swimming in the river when one got into difficulties.

Three swam to the Hylton Road river bank and everyone is now desparately searching for the fourth who was last seen in the water beneath a willow tree.

Thermal imaging cameras are thought to have been used by the Midlands Air Ambulance, and a total of 18 police officers are involved in the search.

Fire rescue boats and boats from Severn Area Rescue Association are combing the riverbank and divers have no arrived to search underwater.

More to follow...

UPDATE: Body found in river - please leave your tributes here.