Devon and Cornwall Police and the UK Border Force have been investigating reports that following the arrival of a ship at the port of Fowey yesterday afternoon (Wednesday), people from the vessel were seen walking along the freight-only railway line leading from the china clay harbour towards Lostwithiel.

Police were called at 5.30pm last night to the docks at Fowey following reports that a group of people had been seen getting off a boat and leaving the port area in the direction of the railway.

Units including the police helicopter and a police dog attended the area and carried out a search but did not locate the individuals.

Devon and Cornwall Police say the incident has now been handed over to the UK Border Force to investigate.

When the Cornish Times approached the UK Border Force for further information a spokesperson said “it was not appropriate to comment further” at this time.