AN UNDERWATER search has been called off for missing teenager Louis Harris.

Louis, 18, was last seen in the early hours of Sunday on Weymouth Beach close to the Pavilion.

Officers searching for the missing Dorchester teenager said his disappearance is "totally out of character," adding they now had “grave concerns” for this welfare.

Specialist dive teams from Devon and Cornwall Police had been searching Weymouth harbour for the last couple of days, while ground teams had been focusing on the town centre, harbour and seafront. Louis' family and friends have also been conducting their own searches.

Officers have now concluded the underwater search but will continue to follow other lines of enquiry.

Inspector Bob Jacobs, of Dorset Police, said: “The underwater search in Weymouth harbour has now concluded and there are no plans for any further underwater searches unless new information comes to light.

“We will continue to carry out other lines of enquiry. CCTV analysis reveals that Louis was last seen making his way along the quayside past the Harbour Master’s office toward the town bridge at 4.30am.

“The family will continue to be updated with developments by specially-trained officers.

“We remain extremely concerned for Louis’ welfare and I would urge anyone with information as to Louis’ whereabouts to please contact Dorset Police.”

Louis, who was last seen at 4.20am on Sunday at the beach steps near the Pavilion is described as white, about 5ft 10ins tall and of slim build.

He has brown short hair. When he was last seen, he was wearing a "Le Coq Sportif" zip up hoodie in light blue, white and dark blue, a pale cream coloured short sleeved button shirt with blue and pink strips, with dark blue jeans and Vans skate shoes.

Anyone with information about Louis’ whereabouts should call Dorset Police immediately on 101 quoting incident number 14:188.



Video and picture above by Dorset Media Service

Earlier in the investigation, Inspector Tony Burden said: "Louis' family have been actively involved and went into Weymouth to search for him.

"Louis is hardworking and is much loved by his friends and family who are desperate for any news on his whereabouts. His disappearance is tearing the family apart and our thoughts and hearts go out to them."

Insp Burden said Louis had attended the Rendezvous nightclub on Saturday night with friends but became separated from them after leaving the venue. He headed towards the Pavilion then Custom House Quay.

Insp Burden said:"His disappearance has had a huge impact in Dorset.

"I can reassure the public that this is a rare event and there is no evidence of foul play and we are doing all that we can to find him.

"I would like to thank the public for their support and sharing his disappearance across social media."

Chief Inspector Jim Beashel, said Louis' family were being kept up to date with developments by specially trained officers.

Speaking on Tuesday, he said: “We still have grave concerns for the welfare of Louis Harris.

“We continue to carry out enquiries and this morning we conducted extensive searches of Weymouth town centre, seafront and harbour with the assistance of the coastguard.

"The police helicopter assisted by searching the Weymouth coastline during low tide."