The walkers were found ont he hills near Durisdeer in Dumfries and Galloway. Photo: Alan O'Dowd CC-BY-SA-2.0

Three men who went missing in the Lowther Hills have been found and airlifted to hospital.

The walkers were reported missing after failing to return from a walk on the hills near the village of Durisdeer yesterday evening.

Moffat, Galloway, Tweed Valley and Police Scotland Mountain Rescue Teams took part in the search for George Crosbie, 73, Jeffrey Stewart, 74, and 64-year-old Bobby Thomson. A Coastguard helicopter and members of the Search and Rescue Dogs Association also joined the operation.

Police Scotland said the men were found east of Durisdeer. “They have been airlifted to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary by helicopter,” a spokesperson said. “No details of their condition are available at this stage. The search is being stood down.

“Thanks to everyone for their concern and support.”