The late-night disappearance at one of the largest Norfolk Broads has led to a major search operation after a man ended up in the water.  

Wroxham Broad was closed with teams of search and rescue specialists scouring the popular boating and swimming destination after a man is believed to have ended up in the water after-dark.

Wroxham Broad was closed to all users during the searchWroxham Broad was closed to all users during the search (Image: Newsquest)

Emergency services were alerted at just after 11pm on Friday.

Teams from Winterton and Bacton Coastguard Rescue, Hemsby Broads Rescue and a coastguard helicopter were called in. 

The extensive search continued throughout Saturday with two search and rescue boats from Norfolk Fire and Rescue to be seen sweeping back and forth in an area close to where it joins the River Bure. 

A drone was also being used to search the water. 

Norfolk Broads Yacht Club said a serious incident had seen all boating activity cancelledNorfolk Broads Yacht Club said a serious incident had seen all boating activity cancelled (Image: Newsquest)

READ MORE: Person missing after going into water at Wroxham Broad

Wroxham Broad, which is one of the largest covering 85 acres and with an average depth of 1.3 metres, is a popular destination with sailors, canoeists, fishermen, swimmers and families.  

Norfolk Broads Yacht Club, whose facilities are located overlooking the Broad, said: “Unfortunately due to a potentially serious incident on Wroxham Broad all boating activity has been cancelled”.

The club said it was unable to give further details or confirm how long it was likely to remain closed while the search continued. 

“The Broad is huge,” said a spokeswoman. 

Boats were launched by teams of search and rescue specialistsBoats were launched by teams of search and rescue specialists (Image: Newsquest) Two search boats could be seen sweeping part of the huge 85 acre BroadTwo search boats could be seen sweeping part of the huge 85 acre Broad (Image: Newsquest)

Events including a dinghy open regatta on Sunday are among those likely to be cancelled. 

Police have closed the Broad to all users and the public car park next to it has also been closed.

People mooring boats were turned away and some people on cruisers were told they had to leave.

Emergency services were alerted to someone missing at 11pm on FridayEmergency services were alerted to someone missing at 11pm on Friday (Image: Newsquest)

Tony Barrett, who was planning on launching canoes, said: “It must be serious if they are closing the Broad. It doesn’t look good with all this activity.”

Fisherman Alan Richards said: “It’s usually a really busy place and you get all sorts using the water. 

“It is shocking and sad to see them searching like this. My thoughts and prayers are with anyone affected.”