Emergency services have launched a huge search operation to find a pensioner who has gone missing in Essex. 

Police, fire, ambulance and the Coastguard have descended on Wivenhoe as part of the search. 

Residents reported seeing multiple vehicles and helicopters heading to the scene on Thursday morning. 

The Coastguard on the scene in Wivenhoe on Thursday morningThe Coastguard on the scene in Wivenhoe on Thursday morning (Image: Newsquest) Essex Fire and Rescue Service confirmed to the Gazette they were assisting with a search and rescue operation. 

It is understood to be in relation to a search appeal for Philip Cohen, 81, who has gone missing from Colchester.

Missing man Philip CohenMissing man Philip Cohen (Image: Essex Police)

Philip has white hair and wears glasses and he was last seen wearing a heavy-knit jumper and possibly dark brown trousers.

Police are worried about him and want to find him to make sure he's okay.

He was last seen in Wivenhoe. 

If you’ve seen him, or have any information as to his whereabouts, call police on 999 quoting incident 270 of November 7.