ESSEX Police have confirmed they are searching Alexandra Lake at Lakeside in West Thurrock late this evening (Friday, 31 July) after reports that a teenager has gone missing.

Officers are asking people to stay away from the area while the search is carried out. Firefighters, ambulance personnel and the police helicopter, which has thermal imaging facilities, are in attendance.

A statement says: "We are currently on scene at Alexandra Lake, Thurrock, following reports of a missing person.

"We were called at around 8.50pm to reports that a teenager had gone missing in the lake.

"We are continuing our search and ask that you please avoid the area."

The lake, which runs alongside the shopping centre and Boardwalk restaurant area, is currently host to an inflatable adventure attraction called Aqua Park.

Firefighters from Grays, Corringham, Orsett, and Leigh Fire Stations are in attendance alongside colleagues from the Service's Urban Search and Rescue Team.