Huge turnout for new John search
A huge search at the weekend failed to turn up any new clues in the search for John Smith, who has been missing on Arran for nearly three weeks.
In an incredible show of community spirit, nearly 180 volunteers gathered at Machrie Tearoom to join in the search last Saturday but, despite their best efforts, John, widely known on the island as Smudger, has still not been traced.
Organised by Rachel Armitage, on behalf of the Smith family, the large searches were divided into groups and scoured Machrie Moor and its environs for any sign of the pensioner, who has been missing since Tuesday
May 30. Each search line was joined by members of the Arran Mountain Rescue Team, who guided the walkers and co-ordinated the search efforts with mobile radio communications.
Having taken advice from the AMRT, who had volunteered their time and expertise, and with a police presence, the searches were conducted professionally and methodically with each participant registering themselves in and out.
The search followed a social media plea for volunteers and an island-wide campaign to place missing posters at every business and public area which had received a massive amount of support from the community.
Thank you
Commenting after the search, Mrs Armitage said: ‘On behalf of the Smith family and friends, a massive thank you to the AMRT, who supported us with their knowledge and skills, and to everyone who turned out to look for Smudger. It was an unbelievable turnout which was very much appreciated.’
John was last seen shortly after 6pm on the Machrie Moor road near the golf course the night he went missing.
It is believed he was heading to Shiskine.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: ‘Anyone with information on Mr Smith’s whereabouts is asked to please contact officers at Lamlash/Irvine police office via 101 and quote incident number 4049/30/05.’