Scores of community members took time out of their Christmas festivities yesterday to help search for a missing Kiltarlity man.
James Paton, 72, was last seen about 1.30pm on Monday near his home, having gone for a walk with his dog.
He was reported missing after his car, a blue Dacia Duster, was found around 4.30pm in Ruttle Woods.
Police say the vehicle was found about three miles away parked on a track with the dog inside. There was, however, no trace of Mr Paton.
A massive land and air search took place on Christmas Eve, involving Dundonell Mountain Rescue Team, Inverness coastguard helicopter 151, and dog handlers from Police Scotland and SARDA Scotland.
Yesterday, police resumed their search at 8.30am. And they were not alone as famil, friends and members of the local community arrived to offer their aid.
Dozens of cars also made their way to the Fanellan bottling plant to begin a community search at 9.15am.
The search, involving a sweep of sections of the surrounding woods, was coordinated by members of the Paton family, who asked the public to liaise closely with the police.
Inverness coastguard helicopter was also out, hampered by drifting banks of mist and the promixity of pylons to the dense woodland.
Mr Paton is described as 5ft 5ins with a grey beard and hair and wears glasses.
It is thought he was wearing a black and red checked shirt and usually wears blue jeans or black work trousers.
There was no news as darkness fell yesterday.
Inspector Les Davidson said: “We are increasingly concerned about Mr Paton.
“This is completely out of character.
“He was known to walk in the wooded area where his car was found but his family believe that he would have stuck to recognised paths.
“If anyone was out walking in the area and saw Mr Paton I would urge them to get in touch.”
Anyone with information should call police on 101.
