THE search for a North Yorkshire diver missing off the Scottish coast was today called off.

Police said an extensive hunt for the man, who has not yet been named but is a member of the Harrogate Sub-Aqua Club, was carried out yesterday.

But the decision was made this morning not to resume it.

A spokesman for Lothian and Borders Police said today: "The area was extensively searched yesterday and I don't believe there is any intention to resume the search today.

"He is now classed as missing, presumed dead."

He said that weather conditions in the area this morning were bad.

The man had been diving on the Glanmire wreck, off the coast of Eyemouth, north of Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Police divers went to the scene yesterday, and a search was also made along the shoreline. RAF helicopters and lifeboats were also used in the operation.

A spokesman for Harrogate Sub-Aqua Club said: "Members of the club are devastated to learn of the loss of one of their members.

"He was one of a group of seven members of the club who had travelled to the coast for the day.

"A thorough investigation of the events has commenced."

Updated: 10:56 Tuesday, November 27, 2001