Drone appeal in search for man

Missing: Police keen for possible footage of beach

Police are trying to trace a member of the public whose drone may hold the key to finding missing man Alastair Done.

It is now over a week since the Cheshire man, 25, was last seen at Balmedie beach after travelling from Crewe by rail.

Police say there have been numerous reported sightings of Mr Done and they believe he was in the beach area about 3pm on Saturday January 5.

They also believe a drone was being used in the area.

Detective Inspector Sam Buchan said: “I would urge the person flying this drone to get in touch as soon as possible – you may have captured footage of Alastair but not realised and it may be crucial to our inquiries.

“Thank you once again to the public for your assistance and information so far, and to Aberdeen Coastguard which has been assisting.”

Mr Done was spotted in the car park by a dog walker who raised concerns for his wellbeing with police.

He was later identified as having travelled from Crewe to Aberdeen Rail Station, where his train arrived on Friday January 4 at 3.51pm.

He went into Aberdeen Market and was seen on CCTV at Premier Stores at Balmedie at around 1pm on January 5 buying food and drink. Since then clothes matching those he was wearing have been recovered on the beach around one mile north of the car park.

Police said he stayed at the White Horse Inn at Balmedie on Friday night and was spotted walking along the dual carriageway in the direction of Balmedie that same day.

Specialist police units, including a helicopter, have been searching in the area.

Mr Done is about 5ft 11in, has cropped hair and wears glasses.

When last seen he was wearing a black hooded fleece, black walking boots and carried a black rucksack with a blue rollmat attached.

He was also carrying a green shopping bag.

CONCERN: Alastair Done, 25, from Cheshire has not been seen since January 5

Police searching for Mr Done at Balmedie beach