Dad reported missing from solo boat trip is found alive in Ireland

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A dad who was reported as missing after failing to return home from a solo trip on an inflatable boat has been found alive in Ireland.

A major search was launched for Chris Ellery on Thursday afternoon.

The 54-year-old had been visiting Fishguard in Wales from his home in Bristol and was due to return home on Thursday.

His daughter Kenzie raised the alarm when he failed to arrive at the planned time.

CCTV had captured him leaving Fishguard harbour at 2pm on Wednesday.

Dyfed-Powys Police appealed for information of his whereabouts, and they confirmed today that he had been found. A spokesman said: “Chris, reported missing in the Fishguard area, has been found safe and well. Thank you to all who shared the appeal.”

Coastguards in Milford Haven told the BBC that Mr Ellery had attempted to cross the Irish Sea, but broke down without communications. He was able to get to the coast of County Wicklow and made his way to the local police station.

Garda (Irish police) officers confirmed to coastguards in Milford Haven that he was safe and well.

Walesonline reported that daughter Kenzie also said on her social media that her father had been found in Ireland.

In a post, she said: “I just want to say thank you for all the amazing support from everyone. The details are still vague but we will be able to answer questions in time, the important part is dad is alive, safe and well!

“It’s been great how social media can bring people together positively and see communities come together to help. Thank you to everyone involved.”

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