Police helicopter used in 'major search' for boy, 14

A police helicopter is being used in a "major search operation" for missing 14-year-old Taylor Charlton, as detectives continue to ask the public to avoid "speculation on social media".

The search is focussing on the River Taw area of Barnstaple, Devon, and involves Devon and Cornwall Police, fire crews, the RNLI and HM Coastguard.

On Friday, a pair of shoes were found that police believe belonged to Taylor, who was last seen on 8 May at about 22.40 BST near a Tesco in the Seven Brethren area. The force said at the time he may have entered the water.

Taylor is 5ft 8in, muscular, with dark brown hair and a moustache and was last seen in a bright blue fitted top, jeans and bright blue Nike shoes.

The teenager was reported missing during the early evening of 9 May.

A police spokesperson said: "We recognise how much the community wants to help to find Taylor but would just remind everyone that if you are out looking, please take care and avoid putting yourself at risk.

"This includes entering unsafe buildings or going near the water or river banks."

The community in Barnstaple has rallied to support the search.

The force thanked the public for its "tremendous response" and said it was pursuing all lines of inquiry.

"We also ask people avoid sharing speculation on social media as unconfirmed information can sometimes make inquiries more challenging," it added.

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