Bear Grylls has joined fellow adventurers in urging police to investigate the disappearance from public life of legendary explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, as a crowdfunded legal campaign tops £17,000.
Concerns have been raised over the whereabouts of the 82-year-old, who has not been seen publicly for over two years and has reportedly been moved between several care homes. Sir Ranulph, who climbed Mount Everest at the age of 65 and was part of the first two-man team to cross Antarctica unsupported in 1993, now has Parkinson's disease.
Step-son's efforts to secure investigation
The Mail on Sunday reports that Sir Ranulph's step-son, Alexander Millington-Cotes, is having "no luck" in his efforts to persuade two police forces to investigate the care and whereabouts of his step-father. He has been joined by outdoor enthusiast and presenter Ben Fogle.
Mr Millington-Cotes has started a crowdfunded legal campaign to help make a "tangible difference in securing proper legal protection for Ran (Ranulph)". Posting on his GoFundMe page, which has raised more than £17,000, he writes: "To the world, Ran is a national treasure and legendary explorer. To me, he is my step-father—a man of immense heart, kindness, and selflessness who supported me for years."
Public figures speak out
Mr Millington-Cotes told the Sunday Telegraph: "I’m trying to establish from the police what they’re doing… I’ve tried to get in touch but no luck so far."
Bear Grylls said he had "been desperately trying to connect with Ran for a year now to no avail. But truth always wins out. These reports of his isolation from his loved ones and treatment in care homes are so deeply disturbing. It’s past time for the Office for the Public Guardian and the police to investigate urgently. We owe it to him. Ran we are coming!"
Ben Fogle, who has also summited Everest like Sir Ranulph, said the "great man" was a "hero" and it was "very troubling" that Sir Ranulph appeared "isolated and kept away from family and friends".
Political response and next steps
Conservative shadow health and care secretary Damian Hinds has said any "potential failings" at the care watchdog the Office of the Public Guardian should be "looked into".
According to the Mail on Sunday, Sir Ranulph's wife, Louise Millington-Cotes, 59, has not responded to requests for comment. Express.co.uk has attempted to contact Sir Ranulph's family for comment.
