A KITESURF discovered in the Solent — without anyone with it — has prompted a large-scale search out on the water.

HM Coastguard said there was an ongoing search, which began at 3.30pm, following the discovery.

There is no clarification of a missing person.

Teams on the search, in the north west of The Solent, are Needles Coastguard Rescue Team, Lymington Coastguard Rescue Team, Lymington RNLI and Hamble Lifeboat.

UPDATE 7.40pm:

HM Coastguard has appealed to the public for information about the owner.

UPDATE 9pm:

HM Coastguard is delighted to report that the kite surfer in the Solent has been located safe and well and thanks to everyone who shared our appeal.