The body of a young British permanent resident of Cyprus was recovered from the sea in Cape Greco the early hours of Saturday authorities said.

According to the search and rescue unit, Ayia Napa police received a report at 1.45am of a missing 21-year-old in the sea area off the Cape, which has been tagged as a dangerous spot and where diving is prohibited.

There have been a number of serious falls from the cliff area in recent months.

The emergency services immediately kicked into gear with both a foot patrol and vessels with divers from the marine police and emergency services

It appears, they said the 21-year-old had gone there to dive with a friend.

The man’s body was recovered by divers at around 4am. He was taken to Famagusta hospital by ambulance but doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.