A 20-YEAR-OLD diver is missing after failing to resurface off Old Harry Rocks on the Dorset coast.

Emily Sherwin, from Poole, was reported missing on Tuesday evening (July 23), after failing to return to the surface during a dive at the cliffs, near Swanage.

Police were sent to the scene, where HM Coastguard and the RNLI conducted extensive searches throughout the night.

A dive team from Avon and Somerset Police also attended to search the waters. However, the search has now been called off.

“Very sadly, the diver has still not been located,” a Dorset Police spokesperson said.

Now, her family has said they are “heartbroken” over the incident.

“We are heartbroken at the loss of Emily, but eternally grateful for the 20 wonderful years we had with her, and finding comfort in the fact that she was doing something she loved,” they said.

“Emily was unique: high spirited, outgoing, loving and loyal. She lit up every room.

“Emily adored the sea and loved sailing and diving. She was looking forward to an exciting career in marine conservation.

“We would like to thank all involved in the attempts to find Emily: the RNLI and coastguard teams, the police divers and all at Parkstone Yacht Club who took over 30 boats to join the search.

“The search operation was a testimony to the impact she had upon everyone she met and the love we all share for her.

“We will miss her forever.”

Detective Chief Inspector Rachel Vallins, of Dorset Police, said: “Officers are continuing to keep the family fully updated and our thoughts are with all of Emily’s loved ones at this extremely difficult time.

“With our partner agencies we have carried out extensive searches in the area where Emily had dived over recent days, but unfortunately we have been unable to locate her at this time.

“Following liaison with maritime experts and a thorough examination of the conditions and circumstances surrounding this incident, we have now taken the decision to stand down our underwater searches.

“Officers have spoken with Emily’s family to inform them of this latest development.

“While the dive search activity has now ceased, we will continue to carry out enquiries and remain committed to exploring every available line of enquiry to locate Emily.

“Finally, I would like to thank all those from partner agencies, as well as volunteers from the community and our own officers, who have worked tirelessly in the search efforts.”

Anyone with information relating to the should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240112128.