The body of a man aged in his early 20s has been recovered from the River Thames near Hampton Court.

He was reported to be in the water just before 4.15pm on Sunday and a search was launched by officers from the Metropolitan and Surrey Police, London Fire Brigade and the lifeboat.

At around 10.30pm a body was pulled from the water by police divers. The man’s family have been told.

Metropolitan Police Superintendent Richard Smith said: “Our thoughts go out to the young man who has lost his life. Our officers worked incredibly hard with partner agencies but despite a rapid response he could not be rescued.

“We recently saw another tragic incident in which a young boy died after entering the Thames at Tagg’s Island. I must again sadly reiterate the dangers the water poses.

“It may look appealing but the danger and risk of loss of life is incredibly real. Please do not enter the water at any point. The consequences are enormous and we do not want to see any more families having to suffer such terrible news.”