The family of a man reported missing from his home are "very concerned" for his safety.

Eric Monson left his home in a village in East Ayrshire on Wednesday morning and has not been seen since.

The 56-year-old’s wife came home that afternoon to find that he was missing but did not raise the alarm as she thought he was taking a regular walk and in the Leigh Milton Mill and Caprington areas near his home in Gatehead, on the outskirts of Kilmarnock.

He had not returned home by 6pm on Wednesday, at which point Mr Monson’s wife contacted the police.

Officers carried out extensive searches of the missing man’s walking route but they have failed to trace Mr Monson.

Inspector Bob Smith said: "Mr Monson has never been missing before and concern is growing for his wellbeing.

"I would like to appeal to anyone who was in the popular walking areas of Leigh Milton Mill, Gatehead, Crosshouse and the Caprington Estate and other areas near to the River Irvine on Wednesday and may have seen a man matching the description of Mr Monson to contact officers as soon as possible.

"I would also appeal to anyone who may have seen or spoken to Mr Monson since Wednesday morning to contact Kilmarnock Police Office."

Mr Monson is described as around 6ft 2in, bald with grey hair at the sides, hazel eyes and has a trim goatee beard which he has recently grown.

When he was last seen it is thought Mr Monson was wearing walking sandals, stone trousers and a short-sleeved shirt and a green tank top. He may also be wearing a skip cap.

He also may not have taken his blood pressure medication with him which he should take daily.

Anyone with information relating to his whereabouts is asked to call the police on 01563 505000.