London park evacuated as police search for teenage boy who went missing while swimming in lake

A London park has been evacuated after a teenage boy went missing after getting into difficulty in the water.

The incident took place in Beckenham Place Park, south-east London, on Friday afternoon.

Friday has been the hottest day of the year so far for much of the country.

Officers said: "Police were called at 15:08hrs on Friday, 04 April to Beckenham Place park.

"A 16-year-old boy is believed to have got into difficulty in the water and is now missing.

"Emergency services are currently co-ordinating a search.

"The next of kin has been informed and are currently being supported by specialist officers.

"The park has been evacuated to facilitate the search."

Lewisham Council, the local authority, said: "We are aware of a serious incident at Beckenham Place Park.

"Council staff are supporting the Police on site. The park is currently closed."