Concern grows for missing Leeds race commentator

Doug Fraser, 54, is known in the racing world for his commentaries for betting shops, radio and TV, from courses in the north of England and Scotland.

West Yorkshire Police said the alarm was raised after Mr Fraser, whose full name is George Douglas Fraser, failed to show up at Hexham Races, on Saturday, where he was due to work.

Mr Fraser was booked to work for broadcasting firm RaceTech at Hexham and the company's chief executive Brad Higgins said he raised the alarm when all attempts to contact him failed.

Mr Higgins said: "He was due to arrive at Hexham at 11am or midday and didn't arrive, which is completely out of character. We tried to contact him to no avail so we took the decision on Saturday evening to call the police."

Mr Higgins said Mr Fraser was well-known in the industry, was totally reliable and would never just not turn up without telling anyone.

A police spokesman said: "Officers have been carrying out numerous inquiries over the weekend to trace Mr Fraser and are becoming increasing concerned for his welfare as he has not been missing before."

Mr Fraser is described as white, around 6ft tall, of medium build, with green eyes and a bald head with receding black-grey hair at the sides. He lives in central Leeds and speaks with a Scottish accent.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police in Leeds on 0845 6060606.