A MISSING walker has returned home safe and well following a massive search involving a police helicopter and search rescue team in the North Yorkshire dales.

Andrew Fletcher, aged 63, from Preston-under-Scar, near Leyburn, Wensleydale, had not been seen since 3.30pm on Friday (June 4) when he was walking out of his village in grey and green walking clothing and carrying a backpack.

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Andrew’s family alerted the police at 6.25pm after he failed to return home.

Extensive searches were carried out throughout Friday evening involving the Neighbourhood Policing Team, the Operational Support Unit, a police helicopter and the Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team.

The search continued until 11.45pm on Friday and was due to resume today (June 4).

Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team spokesperson Steve Clough, said: "It's good news that he has returned home safe and well.

"We had about a dozen mountain rescue personnel out last night for up to four hours.

"We searched local woodlands and paths and were ready to start again this morning. Fortunately the gentleman turned up fit and well."

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