AN Abandoned Dinghy has sparked a "massive lifeboat search".

A dinghy found with an outboard engine and oars attached has lead to an "exhaustive search".

After being found against a sea-wall at East Cowes a search in "bitterly cold winds" was launched at 8.29am this morning.

Conducted by Cowes lifeboat it lasted a total of three and a half hours; during which it searched the Solent between East Cowes and Egypt Point, plus Cowes Harbour and parts of the River Medina.

However, no-one was found and the four-person crew returned to station.

Investigations have revealed that the dinghy was previously based at Shepards Marina, alongside a yacht.

Lifeboat helmsman Jason Hughes, said: “The wind chill factor meant that it was very cold. Now all I want is a hot drink and a hot bath.”