Dramatic search and rescue operation launched after ‘high risk’ man vanishes.

River Ericht in Blairgowrie was focus of weekend hunt for 34-year-old

A dramatic search and rescue mission was launched in Blairgowrie after the possible sighting of a “high risk” man who vanished from his home in the early hours of Friday.

Concern is growing for the safety of 34-year-old Lee Brown, who uses a walking stick and has been described as vulnerable.

Police focused their search this weekend on the River Ericht, which runs through the town.

Emergency services mounted a major operation on Saturday evening, after a member of the public raised the alarm.

It was reported that a man was seen in the water “clinging onto a rock”.

A floodlit search of the river was led by firefighters on two rescue boats.

Residents, including friends and family of Mr Brown, joined in the search.

Police stood on the road bridge and used torches to illuminate the water below.

A playpark at the river’s edge was used as a base of operations for fire crews, while an ambulance was called in as a precaution.

But despite a full-scale search of the area, there was no trace of Mr Brown.

A force spokesman confirmed that the search was ongoing.

He said: “Officers are growing increasingly concerned for missing Lee Brown and we are asking anyone who has seen him, or knows where he might be, to get in touch as soon as possible.

“Lee was last seen at his home in the Blairgowrie area at around 1.45am on Friday, and hasn’t been seen or heard from since.

“He has friends and acquaintances in the Perth and Blairgowrie areas and inquiries are ongoing in each area.”

Mr Brown is described as 5ft 10in, slim with short brown hair.

When last seen, he was wearing a three-quarter length camouflage jacket, tracksuit bottoms and a blue and cream “bucket” style hat.

A helicopter joined the hunt on Saturday afternoon and was seen circling above the town and neighbouring Rattray.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number PS-20181130-1897.

Emergency crews at the scene near the River Ericht on Saturday night.