Police in Dorset are asking Highlanders to help trace a man who has been missing for almost four months after new information has raised serious concerns about his welfare.
Jonathon Bates, 32, from Highcliffe, who has not been seen since Wednesday March 16, is now thought to be in the Fort William area of Lochaber.
Mr Bates was last seen in Christchurch, Dorset, on the evening of Wednesday March 16 and spoke on the phone at 8.40am the following day.
It is believed that he was in and around the Ben Nevis area of Scotland on Saturday April 23 and may have stayed in a camp site at Glen Nevis over the past few weeks with the intention of travelling to Skye.
He is described as white and six feet tall, with dark hair, which may no longer be in a ponytail as shown on the photo issued by police. He may also now have a beard.
Mr Bates wears glasses and was wearing an orange hooded top when he was last seen in Dorset. He is also known to have taken his skateboard with him.
Inspector Lance Cliff, of Dorset Police, said: “Initially it was believed that Jonathon had gone away to be by himself and officers carried out regular inquiries.
“New information has come to light that has made us become extremely concerned for Jonathon’s welfare.”
He added that he would urge anyone who knew where Mr Bates was or anyone who had seen a man matching his description to contact police immediately.
The inspector said: “If Jonathon sees this message, please contact us as we want to know you are safe and well.”
Anyone with any information regarding his whereabouts should call police on 101.
