Two divers lost in wreck

TWO divers were missing presumed dead yesterday when they failed to return to the surface while exploring a wreck off the south Cornish coast.

A third diver was being treated for the effects of decompression in Plymouth last night.

The two divers are thought to have become trapped in the wreck of HMS Scylla, a frigate sunk in 2004 to create a reef at Whitsand Bay.

An air and sea search was launched after the crew of their diving boat raised the alarm on Friday evening.

The Coastguard said its helicopter from Newquay, RNLI lifeboats from Plymouth and Looe as well as the police were involved in the search.

In 2007, two people died after losing their way on the sunken vessel, which lies in 65ft of water. Divers have been warned of the dangers of silt reducing visibility on the warship.

James Instance, of Falmouth Coastguard, said: ‘Our thoughts at this difficult time are very much with the family and friends of the two missing divers.’