Search for OAP missing near Cruden Bay stood down
The search for a 78-year-old man missing in the Cruden Bay area of Aberdeenshire since Wednesday has been stood down.
Ernest Mackie, from Ellon, was last seen near Cruden Bay golf club.
A search on Thursday - including police dogs and divers, an RAF helicopter and mountain rescue crews - failed to find any trace.
Grampian Police said the chances of Mr Mackie's survival were now thought "very slim".
Insp John Esson said: "Over the last two days we have conducted an extensive search of the Cruden Bay area which in addition to police has the coastguard, an RNLI Lifeboat, as well as assistance from an RAF search and rescue helicopter.
"It is now 48 hours since he last seen and, given the winter weather and Mr Mackie's age, the chances of survival outdoors for that length of time are sadly very slim.
"The family of Mr Mackie have been kept informed of developments throughout the search and my thoughts are with them at this very difficult time."
Mr Mackie is described as between 5ft 6in and 5ft 7in tall, of slim build with short grey hair.
He was wearing a blue jacket, brown cord trousers and a flat cap.
Mr Mackie is known to like walking in the area.
He was last seen at the golf club at about 10:40 on Wednesday.
Grampian Police urged locals to check sheds, outbuildings, or any other place where Mr Mackie may have sought shelter.