EMERGENCY services were sweeping the banks of the River Swale in North Yorkshire last night in their search for an elderly man who may have fallen into the fast-flowing water.
It is thought 79-year-old James Kinchen was walking in the Richmond Falls area, beneath the walls of the town's castle, heading towards Mercury Bridge.
He has since been reported missing by his family - and footprints were found on the river's edge close to where he was last seen by a passer-by.
Thermal-imaging equipment failed to find any trace of him and fears for his safety were growing last night.
When last seen, Mr Kinchen was wearing a green anorak, brown trousers and rubber boots. He was also carrying a walking stick.
The search was due to resume this morning.
Meanwhile, there have been unconfirmed sightings of army recruit Christopher Garrett, 16, who disappeared on Tuesday night.
The Isle of Man teenager, who has served with 12 Platoon Cambrai Company for eight months, has still not contacted his family.
When last seen at the Army Foundation College, Harrogate, Christopher was wearing dark combat trousers, black trainers, a dark fleece top and carrying a large blue and black rucksack
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article