Search called off for swimmer who went missing attempting Channel crossing

Firefighter Iain Hughes, from the West Midlands, set off on Tuesday morning but was reported missing that evening

A firefighter who was swimming the Channel for charity is missing in the water and a search for him has been called off, West Midlands fire service (WMFS) has said.

Crew manager Iain Hughes, based at Wednesbury station as part of the technical rescue unit, began his attempt on Tuesday morning, but was reported missing that evening. He was accompanied by a support boat when he began the effort.