Horror as driver dies after his car plunges into river following desperate attempt to try and rescue him from vehicle

A MAN in his 80s has died after his car plunged into a river.

Desperate attempts were made to rescue the motorist after the horror incident on the South Embankment in Dartmouth on Sunday morning.

Several emergency services, including police, the coastguard and fire crews, were on the scene after the alarm was raised at 8.40am.

The car took the plunge opposite the local Lifeboat Centre - with the area closed off.

In an update this evening, Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Sadly, a man in his 80s, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, was extracted from the car and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

"The death is not believed to be suspicious, and a file will now be prepared for the coroner.

"The embankment area was closed, and cordons were put in place for much of the day. These have since been lifted.

";Police would like to thank the public for their support during the incident."

One local told : "There are about 15 emergency cars/ vans/ fire brigade, but no ambulance activity."

A police spokesperson said earlier today: "Emergency services are currently at the scene on the south Embankment, Dartmouth, following reports of a car in the water.

"One person, who was the sole occupant, is believed to be seriously injured.

"Next of kin are not known and are being sought.

"Please be mindful of this if at the scene and avoid publishing identifiable factors of vehicle."