A search operation is underway for a kayaker who was seen last seen this afternoon off Portobello Beach.

HM Coastguard launched the search after a report of a male overdue on an inflatable kayak who departed from the western end of Portobello Beach near to the Seafield Recycling Centre at approximately 3.15pm this afternoon.

The kayaker was last seen at 4pm this afternoon approximately two miles off Portobello Beach. 

He was was in a bright blue and green inflatable kayak with white stripes and was carrying a rucksack, not further described.

He is described as 30-40 years old, approximately 175cm tall, short hair, tanned complexion and of slim build.

He was not wearing a lifejacket and had jeans and a jumper on.   

Rescue units searching this evening include the Coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Inverness, Kinghorn RNLI and Anstruther RNLI lifeboats and Coastguard Rescue Teams from Fisherrow, South Queensferry and North Berwick which are searching, along with officers from Police Scotland. 

Please call Aberdeen Coastguard Operations Centre on 01224 592 334 if you have information.