Search for missing man Andy Samuel stepped up after dinghy found off Isle of Rum

The search for a man in a dinghy who has not been seen for two days off the coast of a Scottish island has been stepped up after police launched a bid for assistance on locating him.

Andy Samuel has not been seen since midnight on Tuesday when a member of the public saw him going from his yacht into his dinghy near Kinloch off the Isle of Rum.

The dinghy was later recovered during searches on Thursday but the 59-year-old, from Fife, was not located.

The coastguard helicopter and several lifeboat crews have been mobilised but officers are now asking anyone who may have seen him to contact them immediately.

Locals are also asked to check outbuildings in case Andy has taken refuge inside.

Inspector Isla Campbell said: “Our thoughts are with Andy’s family at this difficult time. Officers are currently conducting searches alongside partner agencies in attempts to trace him

“I would urge anyone who thinks they may have seen Andy or the dinghy around that area since Tuesday night to get in touch with police.”

She added: “If you live in the island communities nearby, please check your outhouses in case Andy has taken shelter there. Similarly I would ask skippers to keep an eye out and check shorelines.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101 quoting reference 3866 of September 1.