RESCUE teams were out in force in an intensive search operation for a man who disappeared from his home at the weekend.

The Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team, RAF Mountain Rescue, police and an RAF helicopter were involved in the large scale operation at Wath, near Ripon.

They were searching for 36-year-old Ian Simpkin, of South View, Wath, who was last seen at 10am on Sunday when he left his home on foot.

His concerned parents raised the alarm at 6.15pm on Sunday after he failed to return home.

Mr Simpkin, who works at a local scrap yard and is also a part-time gamekeeper, was also due to attend a hospital appointment on Monday morning but failed to show up, further fuelling worries over his safety.

The search, covering an area with a two-kilometre radius, was launched on Sunday evening and continued until dusk oj Monday.

But despite the intensive no trace of Mr Simpkins was found and further checks at local hospitals and travel operators have also drawn a blank.

Sergeant Andy Quaye, of the Ripon Safer Neighbourhood Team, 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."

He added: "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 5ft 10in tall, of stocky build, 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, Anyone who can help should contact Ripon police on 0845 6060 247.