Dorset Police news site

Officers are appealing to members of the public for assistance as they investigate a concern for welfare report in Bournemouth.

Dorset Police received a report at 5.35pm on Tuesday 21 July 2026 raising concern for the welfare of a swimmer in the area of Durley Chine beach.

It was reported that between 2pm and 3pm, the swimmer asked members of the public to look after his belongings before entering the sea but did not return.

The swimmer is described as a white man aged in his 50s, with tanned skin and dark brown hair.

Officers have been carrying out searches in the area with support of HM Coastguard and the RNLI in efforts to find him.

Sergeant David Carmichael, of Dorset Police, said: “We are growing concerned for this swimmer’s welfare and are carrying out enquiries to locate him.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed a man matching the description given handing over his belongings or entering the water at Durley Chine beach between 2pm and 3pm on Tuesday 21 July 2026.

“We are also issuing an image of the belongings left behind – if these are yours or know who they belong to, please come forward. We just want to make sure the swimmer is safe and well.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55260111190. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.