THE wife of a 70-year-old retired businessman who is missing from home has made an emotional appeal for his return.

Ruth Dinsmore says the disappearance of her husband, Kennedy, on Friday, is completely out of character.

Mr Dinsmore, from Cotherstone, County Durham, had made arrangements to go to the nearby Teesdale Sports Centre, in Barnard Castle, but failed to turn up. He has not been seen since he left home at 9.15am, on Friday.

Mrs Dinsmore said: "Wherever you are, please be safe. We love you and we want you to come home."

Mr Dinsmore is a well-known figure in Barnard Castle, having run a clothes shop in the town with his wife for 18 years.

He is described as being 5ft 8ins tall, of average build, with balding, grey hair.

Mr Dinsmore walks with a stoop, and when last seen was wearing grey trousers and a green sports jacket.

Anyone who can help police should ring (01388) 603566.