English channel search called off for missing West Midlands firefighter

A firefighter working for West Midlands fire service is missing during a charity swim in English channel.

French and Belgian military helicopters led a search for Iain Hughes alongside navy and police patrol boats but French authorities have now called off the search.

The 43-year-old was a crew manager based at Wednesbury fire station, and had been raising money for the The Fire Fighters Charity, British Heart Foundation and Midlands Air Ambulance.

A married father of two, began his attempt on Tuesday morning (June 20) accompanied by a support boat, after training for two years.

In a statement, Chief Fire Officer at the force, Wayne Brown, said: "Iain’s disappearance is unspeakably sad. We are giving Iain’s family all the support we can at this distressing time.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone close to Iain. He is a highly-respected and much-loved colleague and friend to many.”

Iain joined West Midlands Fire Service in 1999, at the age of 19, and served at stations across the region.