A MAJOR search and rescue operation was launched across Torbay yesterday after a man was reported missing.

The police helicopter was seen hovering over Paignton and Goodrington seafront while Coastguard teams from Berry Head and Torbay scoured the coastline.

The RNIB inshore lifeboat also joined in the search, which lasted for more than five hours.

A 42-year-old man from Yorkshire had been reported missing in the resort at 11am yesterday but was later found safe on Paignton seafront at 4.30pm by police officers.

Earlier the police helicopter had joined in the search efforts, with the Coastguards scrambled shortly afterwards.

Coastguards said they were searching Goodrington, Broadsands, Paignton Beach, Roundham Road, Victoria Road and Hollicombe Head, as well as out towards Sharkham.

A police spokesman said the missing man was understood to be vulnerable.

The police spokesman added: "There had been a continued and concerted effort by the police and Coastguard to try and find this man.

"We were concerned for him because he is vulnerable and from out of the area, and so we were keen to hear from anyone.

"Police had been searching the area and treated it as a priority because we were increasingly concerned for his welfare."

One witness at Preston said he had seen lots of activity along the coastline.

"The helicopter has been overhead and the lifeboat has gone from Preston to Paignton and back down to Torquay," he said.