UPDATED 19:27*
A SEARCH for a missing sailor, whose boat was found washed ashore on an Isle of Wight beach yesterday, was resumed this morning (Sunday).
At 5.15pm the yacht Brigand was found ashore near Brighstone by a member of the public. Its engine was running and one of its sails up, but no-one was aboard.
Solent Coastguard launched a widespread search involving RNLI lifeboats from Yarmouth and Mudeford, Freshwater's independent lifeboat as well the onshore Needles Coastguard Rescue team and mainland counterparts.
Its Portland and Lee-on-the-Solent helicopters were also scrambled and passing vessels were asked to be on the look out for anything in the water.
Solent Coastguard watch manager David Williams said last night: "We have searched for nearly five hours this evening for the one person who we believe to have been skippering the yacht, but sadly, no sign has been found of him.
"We understand that he left Poole this morning with the intention of sailing to Hayling Island.
"All rescue resources have now finished searching for this evening.
"If you are about to set to sea, please ensure that you are familiar with your boat and equipment, get appropriate training and ensure that you and your crew wear well maintained, correctly fitted lifejackets."
Shortly before noon, a Needles Coastguard Rescue team spokesman said they had been out since 7am today (Sunday), searching the shore of the West Wight between Atherfield and Bouldnor. He estimated sea temperatures to be about 10C.
*A Solent Coastguard spokeswoman said the search was called off mid-afternoon today (Sunday).