Two days on, fears grow for man missing in the snow

A major search has been under way for Ian Simpkin, 36, of Wath, near Ripon, who left home on foot on Sunday at 10am.

Today a team of eight police officers, 15 from RAF Mountain Rescue and 20 volunteers from the village scoured the area in freezing conditions and deep snow.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "Despite the determined efforts in difficult and freezing conditions, the 36-year-old has not be found."

Mr Simpkin's concerned parents raised the alarm at 6.15pm on Sunday after he failed to return home.

A large-scale search by an RAF helicopter covered a 2km radius yesterday and continued today.

Mr Simpkin, who works at a local scrapyard and is a part-time gamekeeper, was due to attend a hospital appointment yesterday.

Further checks at local hospitals and travel operators found no sign of him, the spokesman added.

Sergeant Andy Quaye said: "Our concern for Mr Simpkin is increasing by the hour, particularly in light of the freezing weather conditions.

"As far as we can tell he left home without any money or bank cards. It is also unclear if he was adequately dressed to fully protect himself against the elements.

"We are appealing for any information that could help locate Mr Simpkin. Even the smallest piece of information or possible sighting since 10am on Sunday could prove vital."

Mr Simpkin is described as white, 5ft 10ins and stocky, with short blond hair and blue eyes. It is believed he was wearing a green fleece top, blue jeans, a dark woolly hat and green Wellington boots.