A major search and rescue operation has been launched after a teenage boy disappeared in the River Thames.

Emergency services are today searching the river in Lechlade.

A spokesperson for the fire service said that a group of four boys had been near the water yesterday, and some had gone in to search for him.

READ MORE: Oxford college submits plan to build nearly 1,500 new homes in city

Police were initially called to the scene at around 10pm yesterday (April 30) and emergency services also attended.

Officers have been supported by the National Police Air Service, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service and Severn Area Rescue Association and the search is continuing today (May 1).

A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service said: “The teenage boy has not yet been located, and specialist search teams will be continuing with the search today.

“His next of kin are aware.

“A group of four had been at the location together, and some had entered the water to try and find the boy.

“The others are accounted for.”