Worries growing for missing farmertom

CENTRAL SCOTLAND Police have renewed a public plea for help in tracing an elderly farmer missing from the Stirling area.

Tom Robb (74) was reported missing around 7pm on Saturday when he failed to return home to his farm in the Carron Valley area in Stirling.

Mr Robb has been a hill sheep farmer in the area for more than 50 years.

His family h ave described him as “a fit man for his age, who is happiest being outdoors and who often wanders in the local vicinity”.

Mr Robb suffers from dementia and his family explained his sense of direction is impaired.

“Dad is a sociable person who loves animals and may possibly approach dog walkers,” they said.

“We have been overwh e l m e d with the response from the family, local and farming community in searching such a vast area.”

Leading the search, Inspector Charlie Mitchell said: “Tom left his home to walk on land he owned and failed to return.

“His family raised the alarm about 7pm that night.

“We have carried out extensive searches of the Carron Valley area and we and his family are extremely concerned.

“He has been missing for nearly a week and the weather has been cold and wet.

“Tom was not properly dressed for the weather and we are keen to hear from anybody who may have seen him.”

Teams of searchers including police, the Killin, Ochils and Lomond mountain rescue teams, RAF mountain rescue team, Search and Rescue DogAssociation and local volunteers have been looking for Tom.

Strathclyde Police’s helicopter has also been used to search the area.

Mr Robb is described as 5ft 10in, with balding grey hair, of medium build and last seen wearing a two-tone grey jumper and blue trousers. He may not be wearing shoes.

It is understood the last confirmed sighting of Tom was around 4.30pm on Saturday at Duncarron Fort in the Carron Valley, where a music festival – Doune the Rabbit Hole – was being held.

He was also seen a short time earlier by a group of walkers in the Meikle Bin area.

Inspector Mitchell said: “The Carron Valley area is used extensively by walkers, cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts.

“I appeal for anyone who may see Tom to contact us immediately.”

His family added: “We remain desperate for any news that may help us find him.”

Anyone with information should contact Central Scotland Police on 01786 456000.