Martin Rhodes has gone missing in the Kinlochewe area

A search and rescue helicopter has joined the hunt for a hillwalker who has been reported missing in the Highlands.

Two mountain rescue teams and members of the Search and Rescue Dogs Association continued the operation to find Martin Rhodes in Wester Ross.

The 46-year-old from West Yorkshire failed to return to his accommodation after heading out for a walk. Mr Rhodes, who is described as an experienced hillwalker, was last seen about 8.30am on Wednesday.

Torridon and Dundonnell Mountain Rescue Teams are searching for the walker, aided by a Coastguard helicopter and Sarda handlers and their animals.

Inspector Jamie Wilson of Police Scotland said: “Martin is an experienced hillwalker but it is out of character for him to be out of contact for this length of time.

“We are continuing to urge anyone with information which could help locate him to get in touch.

“Our searches have been focused on the popular Slioch hillwalking route from Kinlochewe but I would ask anyone who believes they might have seen Martin, or has information on where he planned to walk, to let us know.

“With the conditions having turned colder, I would also ask anyone with a shed, outhouse or somewhere that a person could have sought shelter to check them thoroughly.

“Anyone with information which could help is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 4582 of 1 May.”