Police issue fresh appeal to find missing Galashiels postman
Ally McGilvray • Published 20 Jun 2011 09:30
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THE family and friends of a man reported missing in the Borders sparking a full-scale land and air search and rescue operation have this week issued an emotional appeal for him to come home.
Sixty-three-year-old Ernest Stephenson, who is also known as Stevie or Derek, was last seen in the Balmoral area of Galashiels on Wednesday, June 8, at around 2am.
And, this week, concerns were growing for his well-being.
It is understood the doting dad, who is believed to work as a part-time driver at the Post Office in Galashiels, is a diabetic and needs regular injections of insulin.
A police spokesman said: "It is out of character for Ernest not to return home or fail to make contact with family or friends and as such we are eager to find him as soon as possible to ensure he is safe and well.
"Anyone who can help us trace him is asked to come forward and speak with officers."
Members of Border Search and Rescue unit and the Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team joined police in a search of the Gala Policies, a wooded area near his last known address in the Balmoral area of Galashiels, on Thursday.
They were supported by three search and rescue dogs and a police helicopter.
Mr Stephenson is described as white, 5ft 4in tall with a medium build, clean-shaven complexion, short, grey, receding hair, blue eyes and glasses.
He has a scar on the right side of his neck and speaks with a Borders accent.
The amateur photographer was last seen wearing a black fleece jacket, dark sweatshirt, green polo shirt, black jogging bottoms and grey Caterpillar boots.
In a message on the Border Telegraph's Facebook page, former workmate Gregor Sharp said: "That's "Stevie" that used to work at Claridges in Selkirk. I've not seen him for years - I hope he's okay."
Anyone who believes they have seen Mr Stephenson or can assist in locating him is asked to contact police immediately at Galashiels Police Station on 01896 752222 or Divisional headquarters in Hawick on 01450 375051.
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