Police have stopped searching for a missing 81-year-old pensioner who failed to return to his home and being missing for six days.

Ronnie Brown was reported missing on Sunday, November 6 and extensive searches were carried out.

Officers trawled the wider area, reviewing CCYV, conducting door-to-door enquiries, and combing the area with specialist search dogs and drones.

Meanwhile, dozens of volunteers, friends neighbours and community members also helped the search.

A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: “today, we have spoken to Ronnie’s family and confirmed that the search has been stood down.

“The thoughts of every single person at Northumbria Police are with Ronnie’s family today, as they have been since Sunday.

Read more: Ushaw Moor death: Forensic teams search garden after death of boy, 3

“This decision was not made lightly, but sadly, after six days of extensive searching and after consultation with his family, we have the made the decision to stand down.”

They added: “We combed the area for CCTV and considered all possible routes he may have taken. Based on findings we believe that Ronnie headed towards the river and may have fallen in the water.

“The Force’s Marine Unit, assisted by specialist trained dogs who can conduct water searches, were drafted into the search but sadly there have been no sightings of Ronnie.

“A huge thanks to the community for your support and our officers for their efforts. Community spirit and compassion is strong in our area and the people of Wallsend really rallied – thank you.”

Police are now supporting Mr Brown’s family and have asked that their privacy be respected at this time.

Read next: 

If you want to read more great stories, why not subscribe to your Northern Echo for as little as £1.25 a week. Click here