A SEARCH has been launched for a man believed to have vanished while swimming in the River Tay.

The coastguard and a search and rescue helicopter has been deployed following reports that the man, believed to be in his 40s, was spotted in the the river on Monday evening.

Police Scotland said they were concerned for the welfare of the man, described as white with a bald head.

He was wearing a red T-shirt, a black jacket, dark trousers and Converse trainers.

Rescue services were called after the man was seen in the water at around 5.40pm.

Officers have appealed for anyone with information to contact them on 101, or for the man in question to contact them to let police know he is safe.