A SEARCH of Cornwall's north coast is set to continue this afternoon after a woman in a black dress was reported to have gone under the sea but not resurface.

Witnesses reported seeing the woman aged between 40 and 50 dive into a wave at Perranporth Beach yesterday afternoon at around 1.35pm but they did not see her resurface. The woman was described as wearing a black dress when she entered the water.

Police believe she is local as she told lifeguards that she swims at the beach regularly. Police say it may be that she came out of the water safely and is unaware of the concern for her safety but if so they want the woman or anyone who knows her to get in touch.

"One possible outcome is that she may have got out of the water unharmed and is unaware this has been reported," said police. "However, witnesses have described her diving under a wave and not coming back to the surface."

A witness appeal issued by Devon and Cornwall Police says: "Police are appealing for witnesses to a report from coastguard of a female swimmer failing to surface after entering the sea. The incident occurred at approximately 1335 Saturday 7th August on Perran Sands Beach, near Perranporth. A search of the coastline will resume this afternoon.

"Description is a white female in her 40’s or 50’s, slim build with dark shoulder length hair, wearing a short black dress. She is believed to be local because she informed lifeguards she is a regular swimmer in these waters.

"Police are asking for any information which may assist with the identity or potentially the whereabouts of this female.~"

If you are able to provide any information please call 101 and quote log number 585 070821.