Police are searching for a man who went missing after he failed to complete the first part of a triathlon race in Kent.

The athlete, named locally as Paul Gallihawk, sparked a huge search operation on 29 August after he disappeared during the swimming leg of the race at Leybourne Lakes in Maidstone.

A police helicopter and boats took part in the search for the 34-year-old, the BBC reported.

Kent Police said the search resumed with a team of specialist divers.

Mr Gallihawk, who works at a recruitment firm in Sevenoaks according to KentOnline, was taking part in his first triathlon.

His JustGiving page reads: "Hi everyone. I am taking part in my first ever Triathlon. It consists of a 750m swim in open water round Leybourne Lakes, followed by a 14 mile bike ride and 5 mile run.

"I'm raising money for Kings College Hospital who looked after my dad through a tough 2014. Any donations much appreciated. Feel free to come and watch Sat Aug 29th starting at 9am."

Ocean Lake Triathlon, the organisers of the race, wrote on Facebook: "We are shocked by what happened yesterday at the Ocean Lake Triathlon and are working closely with the emergency services to do everything that we can to assist them in their search.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."