Toddler found in sea dies: Father missing

A two-year-old boy who was found floating in the English Channel has died and police say that the search for the boy's father is continuing.

At about 6.40pm on Sunday Solent Coastguard received a call from a yacht reporting that they had discovered a dinghy floating empty about a mile out to sea. They were on their way to port and had taken the dinghy in tow. The dinghy contained personal effects, refreshments, clothes and a child's armbands.

Littlehampton Coastguard rescue team were called out to meet the yacht. However, ten minutes after the initial call, Solent Coastguard received a Mayday call and a 999 call from another vessel reporting that they had pulled a young toddler from the water. The boy, who has yet to be officially identified, later died at Worthing Hospital.

Sussex Police said they are investigating the incident, but are not certain of the circumstances.

A police spokesperson said that were "concerned for the welfare of Alan Watkins, 50 years, of London. He and his child were reported missing by his wife last night. A caravanette, registered to Mr Watkins, was found in Sea Road, Littlehampton last night.

"Officers do not know, at this stage, what connection there is with Littlehampton."

Police have confirmed that Mr Watkin's dinghy was found floating in the sea at 6.40pm last night."

The search for Mr Watkins resumed at approximately 6am this morning - utilising the services of a coastguard helicopter, Littlehampton RNLI lifeboats and coastguard search teams, accompanied by the West Sussex Fire and Rescue Search Team.

Detective Chief Inspector Adam Hibbert, Sussex Police, said: "Our sympathies go to the mother of the little boy who has died. We believe that the two year old was with his father yesterday. We have traced their vehicle and we, with a number of agencies, are doing all we can to trace Alan Watkins. An incident room has been set up at Littlehampton Major Incident Suite and our enquiries continue."

Anyone who has information is asked to contact the incident room on 0845 60 70 999, quoting Operation Olson. or alternatively to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(SP/JM)