Harbour death tragedy - search for dead boy's missing father continues

POLICE, coastguards, lifeboat crews and firefighters are continuing their search for the father of a two-year-old boy found floating in Littlehampton harbour on Sunday evening (see earlier story).

The father was today (Monday) named as Alan Watkins, 50, of London. During a press conference outside Littlehampton Lifeboat Station, Det Chief Insp Adam Hibbert said police were concerned for Mr Watkins' safety.

Mr Watkins and his son, who has not yet been formally identified or named, were reported missing on Sunday night by his wife, who is Asian.

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A caravanette, registered in Mr Watkins' name, was found in Sea Road, Littlehampton, last night.

Forensic specialists are examining the vehicle, and a small inflatable dinghy found empty a few hundred yards outside the harbour entrance at 6.40pm on Sunday.

About 10 minutes later a passing yacht found the child's body, floating, face-down, just inside the harbour.

The toddler was transferred to another boat in which a woman crew member attempted to resuscitate him.

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The alarm was raised and the boat was met on the river bank by a St John Ambulance first responder volunteer, who continued with effort to save the boy's life.

He was taken to Worthing Hospital, but was dead on arrival.

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