Sadly, the body of a man has been located in the search for a diver missing off The Gardens on Tasmania’s east coast.

Emergency services were notified shortly after 8pm yesterday, after the man in his 30s did not return to the group he was diving with.

Inspector Luke Manhood said the group had been diving about 50 metres from shore.

“A search effort involving the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and local volunteers was launched yesterday evening, and recommenced at first light this morning.”

“Sadly a man’s body was located underwater a short time ago, in the vicinity of where the group had been diving.”

“Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones, and formal identification will be completed in due course.”

A report will be prepared for the coroner.