POLICE investigating the disappearance of a former miner three years ago will today continue excavations at a former aid raid shelter.

Edward Donnelly was 53 when he vanished from his home in Fynway, Sacriston, County Durham, on March 25, 2002.

Police, acting on information from witnesses, yesterday used earth-moving equipment to dig up the concrete shelter near the old pit site on Blackett's Bank, Old Acorn Lane, Sacriston.

They believe it could hold clues to what has happened to Mr Donnelly.

After opening the door, police found piles of used car tyres, which were removed.

Detective Superintendent Neil Malkin, who is heading the inquiry, said: "The search has been prompted by information from witnesses who have seen Press reports.

"We have used excavation equipment to reveal the entrance and are using special search teams from Northumbria Police to make a very detailed examination of what is inside.

"The material inside will take time to remove and we have to be methodical about how we do that so we can take every opportunity to gather evidence."

He added a specialist dog team from South Yorkshire was helping in the search, which extended to the nearby woodland.

Det Supt Malkin added he could not rule out the faint possibility that Mr Donnelly was still alive, but if that was the case it was "remarkable he has not made contact with his family or friends".

Earlier this year, John Pounder, 49, of Sacriston, was arrested in connection with Mr Donnelly's disappearance.

He was bailed on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and, less than a month later, was found dead in non-suspicious circumstances.

Following a tip-off, officers searched Mr Pounder's home for three days and sent several samples for forensic examination.

Det Supt Malkin said results from tests were still being awaited, with the line of inquiry remaining active.

Mr Donnelly, known as Eddie, was 5ft 8in, pale and had mousy brown hair.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0845 606 0365 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.