Urgent Police Appeal for Missing Campervan Driver in Galloway Forest Park
Police Scotland have launched a widespread public appeal to locate a missing man who may be in the remote Galloway Forest Park area. Stephen Neil, aged 60, was last seen on Saturday evening at approximately 7:00 PM in the small village of Ae, located within Dumfries and Galloway.
Distinctive Vehicle and Extensive Search Efforts
Investigating officers believe Mr. Neil is traveling in his campervan, which has a distinctive appearance. The vehicle is registered under the license plate L643 SES and is described as matt black with green wheels and trim. Inspector Lloyd Caven emphasized the challenges of the search, stating, "We believe Mr. Neil may have traveled in his campervan to the Galloway Forest area. That is obviously a huge area to search, so to assist local officers we have enlisted the help of local mountain rescue colleagues and the force's helicopter."
The Galloway Forest Park spans nearly 775 square kilometers, making it one of the largest forest parks in the United Kingdom. Inspector Caven acknowledged the difficulties posed by the weather, road conditions, and the remoteness of the region. He urged anyone who has been in the area or has seen Mr. Neil or his vehicle to come forward immediately.
Description and Ongoing Investigation
Stephen Neil is described as a white male, standing 5 feet 9 inches tall, with blue eyes. He is balding and has very short grey or white hair. Authorities have not confirmed what clothing he was wearing at the time of his disappearance.
In addition to the aerial and mountain rescue support, police are conducting a thorough ground investigation. Inspector Caven detailed the efforts, saying, "Officers are checking CCTV, doing door-to-door enquiries, and have been liaising with various local agencies with regard to looking out for him."
The public is urged to contact Police Scotland with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to aid in the safe location of Mr. Neil.
