Police need help from the public
21:44, 24 Jan 2026Updated 21:47, 24 Jan 2026
Ambulances, police and fire engines were seen at the riverside in Tiverton(Image: )
A huge emergency services operation in Tiverton today (Saturday) is in response to reports of a ‘kayaker in distress’.
Police, the fire service and ambulance crews, as well as a police helicopter, have been in Tiverton since around 4pm on Saturday afternoon, with locals reporting seeing search and rescue teams in the area.
Devon and Cornwall Police have issued a public appeal to residents in the Tiverton area following reports of an ‘unidentified kayaker in distress’ on the River Exe.
The appeal reads: “Police are asking for the public’s help following reports of an unidentified kayaker believed to be in distress on the River Exe in the Tiverton area. At this time we are seeking any information that may assist, including:
Meeting points or launch locationsTimes and locations of anyone kayaking on the River Exe todayAny other relevant details, no matter how small they seem.
“If you have any information that could help, please contact police immediately, quoting log: DCP-20260124-0511.”
This is an ongoing incident. You can read more details in our live blog here.