Public urged to check sheds for missing pensioner as major search ongoing in Dumfries and Galloway

A major search is under way for a pensioner who was last seen walking on Wednesday afternoon in Dumfries and Galloway.

John McVean was last seen at 2.12pm on July 19 in Newton Stewart, walking across towards Old Minnigaff then towards Waulkmill and a local path known as Walk 7.

The 79-year-old is known to go for a lengthy daily walk starting from St Couans Place and usually returns around 5pm.

The latter part of his walking route takes him to the Minnigaff, Cumloden, and Glenamour areas, returning back via Machermore/Minnigaff.

Police said that it is “out of character” for him not to return home, and concern is growing as he has now been missing overnight.

John is described as being around 5ft 8ins tall, with grey/white hair and wears glasses.

He is thought to be wearing a black cap, green waterproof jacket and blue jeans.

A number of resources, including a police helicopter and partner agencies, are conducting searches in Newton Stewart and the surrounding area.

Inspector Stewart McColm said: “I’d ask any members of the public to report any sightings of John so we can understand his movements from being in the Ghyll Crescent area on July 19.

“I am particularly appealing to residents of Minnigaff, Old Minnigaff, Glenamour, Cumloden, Newton Stewart Golf Club and Conifer Lodges, to check their gardens, sheds and outbuildings, in case John has become disorientated and sought shelter.”

Those with information should report it to Police Scotland via 101 and quote incident number 3925 of July 19.