HOPES are fading for a County Durham man who has been missing for a week after going hiking in a Spanish mountain range.

Michael Eggleston, 54, from Durham, disappeared on June 2.

He was last seen leaving his hotel in Benichembla, near Alicante.

Police and walking groups have not been able to trace the former soldier, who is employed by the Learning and Skills Council in Gateshead.

Mr Eggleston's wife Janice was due to return to the UK tomorrow.

The UK Foreign Office said consular staff in Spain were providing assistance to Mr Eggleston's family.