A massive air and land search is underway for a missing Kiltarlity man.
James Paton was last seen around 1.30pm on Monday near his home in Kilarlity.
His car, a blue Dacia Duster, was later found around 4.30pm in Ruttle Woods, about three miles away parked on a track with the dog inside but there was no trace of Mr Paton.
The 72-year-old is described as 5ft 5ins with a grey beard and hair. He also wears glasses.
It is thought he was wearing a black and red checked shirt and usually wears blue jeans or black work trousers.
Inspector Les Davidson said: “We are increasingly concerned about Mr Paton who has now been missing overnight. This is completely out of character.
“He was known to walk in the wooded area where his car was found but his family believe that he would have stuck to recognised paths.
“If anyone was out walking in the area and saw Mr Paton I would urge them to get in touch.”
Some 21 members of Dundonnell Mountain Rescue Team have been taking part in the search for Mr Paton.
Searches last night and today focused on woodland in the Fanellan and Ruttle areas near Kiltarlity.
Team members were assisted by HM Coastguard helicopter 151 from Inverness as well as by dog handlers from Police Scotland and SARDA Scotland.
Dundonnell MRT leader Iain Nesbit said: “Our thoughts are very much with Mr Paton’s family at what must be a very worrying time for them”.
At present, Mr Paton remains missing.
Many local people have rallied with many offers of help to search Ruttle woods.
Anyone with information can contact the police on 101.
