A MAJOR search operation for a “kayaker in distress” is underway at a popular UK beauty spot.

, fire, and ambulance crews were scrambled to the riverside in Tiverton, , earlier this evening after the alarm was raised.

NINTCHDBPICT001053881253Dozens of emergency vehicles responded to the riversideCredit: Mark Passmore Photography NINTCHDBPICT001053881331Medics were spotted at the beauty spot as searches got underwayCredit: Mark Passmore Photography

Emergency vehicles lined the riverbank as searches for the kayaker on the River Exe got underway.

A helicopter reportedly joined the operation as and Police issued an appeal for information.

Cops asked for any witnesses or anyone that may have information that could assist the search to contact them immediately.

In an appeal, the force said: “At this time we are seeking any information that may assist, including:

“Meeting points or launch locations.

“Times and location of anyone kayaking on the River Exe today.

“Any other relevant details, no matter how small they seem.

“If you have any information that could help, please contact police immediately, quoting log: DCP-20260124-0511

“Thank you for your support.”

It comes amid a yellow weather warning covering Devon was issued as Storm Ingrid batters the country.

The storm is expected to plunge the nation into chaos with travel delays, power cuts, flooding and potentially snow forecast in the coming days.

In Devon, part of the historic Teignmouth Pier was destroyed by crashing waves and strong winds as the coast was battered by Storm Ingrid.

In the worst affected regions, 50mm of rain is expected to fall, while in other areas this is anticipated to reach 20-40mm.

Along the coast, winds may approach gale-force speeds, as they did yesterday.

Flooding is also anticipated to hit many parts of the UK, even outside of the weather warning regions.

There are 31 flood warnings in force across the country, where flooding is “expected”.

The Environment Agency has also released a further 155 flood alerts in areas where flooding is “possible”.

NINTCHDBPICT001053881255Search teams scoured the water for the missing boaterCredit: Mark Passmore Photography