Boat at centre of search had set off from Arbroath

News imageBBC A small white fishing boat with orange buoy attached to it, washed up on a pebbly beach with the waves crashing on to it.BBC
The boat remained on the shoreline on Monday

A boat which sparked a major missing person search after washing ashore in Aberdeenshire had set off from Arbroath, BBC Scotland News understands.

The vessel ran aground near Inverbervie beach at about 11:15 on Saturday.

Emergency services, including a coastguard helicopter, were involved in the initial search.

Police Scotland said inquiries to find the occupant were ongoing.

It is understood the creel boat had set off from the Angus town of Arbroath before later being found further up the coast.

Rescue teams from Montrose, Stonehaven, Arbroath and Aberdeen were involved in the search.

Lifeboats from Arbroath, Montrose and Stonehaven also assisted.

Police Scotland said on Monday: "The sole occupant of the vessel remains a missing person and extensive inquiries are ongoing to trace him."


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