A man who had been missing at sea for several hours in Marsalforn was found safe and sound, the police said.

A search was mounted for the man whi was seen holding on to a buoy in the bay at around 1.45am.

A helicopter was despatched to Marsalforn after a report was filed for assistance, while an Armed Forces of Malta vessel is also on site.

Police officers on shore were also seen scanning the bay.

Items belonging to the man were located on the shore.

A spokesman for the police said the man had been found just after 8.30am, safe and sound. No further details were provided.