Check sheds for missing Shropshire man, say police

Police hunting an 81-year-old man who has gone missing from his home in Shropshire are today urging people to check their sheds and outbuildings.

Michael Ashton, of Church Street, Ellesmere, was reported missing by neighbours at 8pm on Saturday. There has been no contact with him since 7pm on Friday.

Police are urging people to look in sheds or outbuildings as they believe he may have sought shelter from the weather over the weekend.

Mr Ashton is white, about 6ft tall, with a slim build, and has grey hair and beard.

Sergeant Richard Coles, from Oswestry Police Station, said: "We are continuing our search for Mr Ashton and are issuing a picture of him in the hope that the public may be able to help us find him. Mr Ashton is believed to be on foot, has little money on him and is not very mobile, so it is not thought he has gone very far.

"I would urge local people to check any sheds or outbuildings as he may have sought shelter from the weather over the weekend.

"If anyone sees someone who they believe may be Mr Ashton please do approach him and then call the police if it does appear to be him."

Sergeant Coles said: "We are in regular contact with Mr Ashton's family and they are now extremely worried for his welfare . . . He is also described as wearing glasses and it's very likely he is wearing a blue jumper and cream trousers."

Call West Mercia Police on 101 or 0300 333 3000.