Warrington man missing after kayaking incident in Switzerland

Bren Orton, a professional and well-known kayaker, has gone missing on the Melezza River in the Ticino area of Switzerland.

This is according to reports from his sponsor Runcorn-based Pyranha who say authorities and friends of Bren, a former St Gregory’s Catholic High School pupil, have been ‘tirelessly’ searching for him since he disappeared four days ago.

It is believed that Bren became trapped in the water and did not resurface.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, Pyranha Kayaks said: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce an accident involving Bren Orton.

“While kayaking with a group on the Melezza River in Switzerland, Bren became trapped in a recirculating feature and did not resurface.

“Authorities and friends are tirelessly continuing their search efforts, and at this time, Bren is considered missing.”

Police in Ticino have confirmed they are continued to search for Bren, along with the help of Italian police.

A spokesperson for the force said: “Shortly before 2.45pm in the area of ​​Palagnedra, a man who was previously in a kayak was reported missing in the Melezza river.

“The searches - currently unsuccessful and still ongoing - began immediately and involve agents from the cantonal police and, in support, from the Ascona police as well as rescuers from the Locarnese and Valli Ambulance Service.”

The 29-year-old started kayaking when he was just nine years old after discovering his love for the sport during a school trip.

With more than 33,000 subscribers on YouTube, he is known for documenting his time travelling the world kayaking.

His latest video was taken in Italy nine days ago, where he kayaked down the Devil’s Slide – an infamous series of narrow, twisting waterfalls on the Sorba river.

A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office told the Warrington Guardian: "We are supporting the family of a British man reported as missing in Switzerland and are in contact with the local authorities.”