Searches are continuing for a missing 22-year-old Sutherland man who disappeared after a show dance almost four weeks ago.
Lachlan Simpson, of Embo, was last seen outside the marquee tent in Dornoch heading towards Tain at about 1.30am on Sunday, July 26, despite telling friends he would meet them at his home, which is in the opposite direction.
A huge search has failed to find any trace of the young chef. including the green and grey rucksack which he had with him that day.
Search co-ordinator Inspector Jamie Wilson said: “Specialist search officers are continuing their daily search of the local area, utilising resources such as the police helicopter for shoreline and wooded areas. Police and SARDA dogs have been active in addition to local Coastguard personnel, who have assisted by carrying out both shoreline and inland searches.
“Searches are focusing on areas close to where Lachlan was last seen but also areas he was known to frequent and spend time. “Wider searches have been carried out with the thought Lachlan may have lost his way trying to reach his destination that night.
“We continue to have enormous support from the local community and beyond and are very grateful for the search efforts and all information received to date. All information received is considered and thoroughly investigated so we would reiterate our appeal for anyone with any information, no matter how insignificant they may feel it to be, to make contact with police.
“Officers will be carrying out another leaflet drop in the local area next week to ensure as many residents and visitors as possible are aware of Lachlan’s disappearance. On this note, I would also appeal again for residents to search sheds and outbuildings again for anything of note that may assist us in tracing Lachlan. Lachlan’s rucksack is still outstanding so we are very keen to trace this item.”
“The overwhelming response from the public has been a great support not only to the investigation but to Lachlan’s family at this difficult time. We have a dedicated officer updating the family on a regular basis.”