Tom Allan, 63, who was last seen by his family a week ago, remains missing after vanishing during Storm Boelo, prompting a renewed police appeal. He was reported missing from Westmains Farm in Stonehouse, South Lanarkshire, on Friday, October 23, with his family last seeing him at approximately 8.15am that morning. Officers say they are "very concerned" for his welfare.
Searches Continue Across Stonehouse
Extensive searches continue in the Stonehouse area, with the farmland and surrounding region thoroughly examined during the storm, which battered Scotland with torrential rain and 80mph gales over the weekend, causing widespread damage to numerous communities. Police are collaborating with specialist units including the police helicopter, dive and marine unit, police dogs, and mountain rescue teams.
Seven days after his disappearance, the force has released a renewed appeal for information. Tom's family, including his daughter and niece, have also turned to social media to make a heartfelt plea.
Family's Social Media Appeal
Sharing a photograph of what her father was wearing when he departed his home, Gayle, Tom's daughter, posted on Facebook: "This is what my dad (Tom Allan) was wearing when he left his home on Friday 23rd October. White cap with a dark brim, navy blue boiler suit, green wellies, and a green flexothane type waterproof jacket. He also had a red collared jacket underneath the boiler suit. Please, please get in touch with the police if you recognise anything or have any information."
Katy, Tom's niece, added: "It's been one week and uncle Tom is still missing. Please keep sharing [the appeal] We need him home!"
Police Urge Public to Check Dashcams and Sheds
Tom is described as white and 6ft 1in with grey hair. He was described by his loved ones as wearing blue overalls and a white cap, and he may also be wearing a green jacket. Inspector Kenny MacRobert said: "Tom has now been missing for a week, and we are very concerned for his welfare. We're continuing to appeal to any members of the public, including anyone who has been walking in the area over the last week, to consider whether they may have seen Tom and let us know about any potential sightings. We'd particularly urge motorists who have been driving in the local area to check any dashcam footage in case you have captured anything of significance."
Earlier in the week, Inspector Colin Thapar had urged the public to check gardens, sheds and outhouses. He said: "We are very concerned for Tom's welfare and we are keen to trace him as soon as possible. As our searches and enquiries continue, I would urge anyone living, walking or driving in the area to keep a look out for Tom. Please check gardens, sheds and outhouses in case he has sought shelter."
Anyone with information regarding Tom's whereabouts is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 2759.