A dad whose six-year-old son plunged into a river during a fishing trip leapt into the water in a desperate effort to save him.
Lucas Dobson has not been seen since 1.20pm yesterday, and .
Volunteers have joined police, paramedics, coastguard officials and firefighters along the River Stour near Sandwich, Kent.
His aunt told Mirror Online Lucas' dad and two of his friends jumped into the water, but the current was too strong.
Kent Police have led the massive search, which also involves water safety units, an inshore lifeboat, Coastguard helicopter and Kent Fire and Rescue Service to find the missing boy.
A search of the riverbeds and a scrap yard was also being carried out last night.
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Lucas’ aunt Maciee Stanford, 18, said: “He was with his dad and his dad’s friends along with other children.
“The incident happened because our Lucas was on the jetty and tried to step from there onto the boat but he fell in between the jetty and the boat (small gap).
“As soon as he fell the three adults jumped in after but the current was too strong he had already gone in the short amount of time he could not be found. The current was so strong the three men could barely swim in it.
“They fish and do this regularly as it is behind one of the men’s house all the children play together here.”
But authorities decided to pause the hunt at 10pm for safety reasons.
Members of the public have joined the frantic search. Others have shared their support with messages of hope online. The fire service held a public meeting to brief volunteers at 7pm.
Roads were last night closed in the area.
Lucas was wearing a black and white t-shirt when he vanished.
Assistant director for Kent Fire and Rescue Service, Chris Colgan, said last night: "We're all incredibly grateful to everyone who has given everything today to try and locate this little boy.
"Our thoughts are with him and his family tonight at this very difficult and emotional time.
"I would like to appeal to people who have come to Sandwich to join the search - if you continue overnight please make sure your own life isn't placed at risk.
"We have issued some safety advice about keeping clear of the river's edge, staying on the main tracks, working in groups and never alone and please make sure you are equipped with a phone and torches. We really want people to stay as safe as possible - thank you."
A Kent Police spokesperson said: "Kent Police was called to Richborough Road in Sandwich at 1.20pm regarding concern for the welfare of a child reported to have fallen in the River Stour.
"A search is underway by officers and other emergency services including the Coastguard and Kent Fire and Rescue Service."
A later statement read: "Whilst we appreciate the support we have received from members of the public who wish to help in the search, we would strongly advise people to stay away from the water.
"This is for their own safety and to ensure those working within the emergency services can focus solely on locating the missing boy."
