Desperate loved ones of Alex Johnson are calling for the public's help in their search to bring him home.

Alex, from Chester-le-Street , is believed to have fallen from the Tyne Bridge in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The search for the 24-year-old remains ongoing and his loved ones continue to scour the River Tyne after his disappearance.

Now - after a viral social media appeal - the public are being urged to join an organised search planned for Saturday morning to bring Alex home.

Devastated sister Ashleigh Marr said: “The support from the community has given us the strength to keep on going.

“My brother needs to see everyone loved him and that people did care.

Ashleigh Marr with her brother Alex Johnson
Ashleigh Marr with her brother Alex Johnson

"We can't do anything else until we have him."

Born and raised in Chester-le-Street, County Durham , Alex's "purpose" in life according to his sister was always to help others.

Mum-of-two Ashleigh, 29, said: "Alex was really caring and loving.

“He wanted to help everyone else with their problems.

“Alex really liked his music. He enjoyed going out to shows, and loved being with his friends."

Northumbria Police confirmed the force received a report of a concern for welfare for a man on the Tyne Bridge at 2.15am on Tuesday.

Family and friends have since been desperately searching the River Tyne, and took to social media to urge others to help.

Ashleigh added: “You just never think this will happen to you.

Loved ones are desperately searching the River Tyne around Newcastle for Alex Johnson
Loved ones are desperately searching the River Tyne around Newcastle for Alex Johnson

"You can't prepare for it - it still does not even feel real."

A Facebook post has been shared more than 5,000 times in a matter of hours.

A public search has been arranged on Saturday morning in an attempt to cover as much ground as possible from Byker through to Newburn.

Anyone available has been urged by loved ones to meet on the Gateshead side of the Swing Bridge for 11am.

Ashleigh finished: “If anyone has any spare time or is in the area – even for just half-an hour.

"Don't look towards the buildings on your walk - look towards the water."

Inquiries remain ongoing, and Northumbria Police has urged anyone with information to contact 101 quoting reference number 60 16/04/19.