Search For Missing Kayaker Called Off

Published on: 5 Apr, 2016
Updated on: 10 Apr, 2016

The search for a kayaker who was washed away on Easter Monday has been called off today (April 5) after eight days.

A statement issued by Surrey Police this afternoon said: “[We] can confirm that following consultation with Surrey Fire and Rescue Service and Surrey Search and Rescue the search of the River Wey for a missing kayaker from Guildford has concluded.”

The man, who has been named by his family as 56-year-old Grant Broster, was in a kayak which overturned in the River Wey in Guildford on Monday, 28 March when the river was fast flowing following Storm Katie.

The statement continued: “Despite an extensive and detailed multi-agency search of a wide section of the river over a number of days the missing man has yet to be located.”

The search in progress last week.

The operational decision was based on information from the different agencies involved that all practical and detailed search options had been exhausted.

West Surrey Chief Inspector Dave Mason said: “This was obviously a very difficult decision and one which we have not taken lightly. We have consulted extensively with the specialist search teams from the numerous agencies involved in this large-scale operation which has continued for the best part of a week.

“We have done everything possible to find the missing man but unfortunately despite our best efforts he has yet to be located.

“Throughout the incident Surrey Police officers were in close contact with the man’s family to offer them as much support and information as we possibly could. Our thoughts go out to them at this difficult time.”