In a major effort to locate an 80-year-old man who has been missing for two days, Lancashire Police have deployed drones, search dogs, and a helicopter to scour the area. Brian Fletcher, a resident of Bury, disappeared after driving to one of his usual walking spots near the village of Tockholes on Saturday afternoon. A dedicated “keen walker” and birdwatcher, Fletcher is a familiar face in the area and authorities are eager to ensure his safety.
Alongside mountain rescue teams, Lancashire Police are leading the search for Mr. Fletcher, who is described as 5ft 8ins tall with grey hair and a small scar on his cheek. Wearing a brown cap, blue top, and blue trousers, Fletcher’s grey Citroen C4 was discovered parked in a layby along the A675 near Tockholes Road. The search has extended to the Roddlesworth Reservoirs and parts of the West Pennine Moors as concern for his well-being grows.
Various rescue teams, including Bolton, Rossendale & Pendle, and Bowland mountain rescue teams, have come together to assist in the operation. Utilizing search dogs, drones from the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, and a coastguard helicopter, the teams are working diligently to locate Mr. Fletcher. The search has expanded to include areas like Darwen Moor, Withnell Moor, and Roddlesworth Plantations in the hope of bringing him to safety as soon as possible.
As the search continues into its third day, Lancashire Police are urging residents in the Tockholes area to remain vigilant and report any sightings of Mr. Fletcher. With authorities combing the fields and moors in the region, the focus remains on finding the missing man. Drivers with dashcam footage along the A675 Belmont Road between Abbey Village and Tockholes on Saturday afternoon are also encouraged to come forward with any information that may aid in the search effort
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