The family of a missing 20-year-old man have publicly thanked searchers for their efforts.

Grant Ritchie disappeared beside cliffs near Cove Rangers football ground after walking home from a night out at around 1am on Sunday, January 29.

A major rescue operation, involving police, coastguard and a rescue helicopter, covered a three-mile stretch of coastline at Cove Bay, but was stood down after three days of searching.

Family and friends of the popular man also joined the extensive searchearlier this week.

A statement from Grant's family says: "The last few days have been particularly traumatic for us all but the most heartbreaking part is not knowing where Grant is or what has happened to him.

"We would like to thank everyone who has come out to help us in the search for our son and express our gratitude for their support at this time.

"It is comforting to see that so many of Grant's friends and the wider community are willing to put in such a great effort into helping us find him and that is an indication of how well thought of he is.

"Everyone just wants to know where he is and what has happened to him. The search and rescue team were fantastic and we are grateful for the work they have carried out, but we are not ready to give up the search.

"Grant is such a popular guy and is always laughing and joking with his friends and it's incredibly difficult not having him here with us. We would ask that anyone with any information get in contact with Grampian Police."

Grant's girlfriend, Lisa Stephen, added: "The last week has been the most difficult of my life. I just wish he was here with me - we were always very happy when we were together and each day without him is more difficult than the last.

"I'm grateful for everyone who has joined the search and just wish we could find him or that he would walk back through the door.

"It's difficult to contemplate how much changed the night he went missing - one minute we were laughing and joking together and the next he has disappeared. I just want to have him by my side again."

The family say they are keen to continue the search for Grant, but ask that anyone involved takes care and stays safe while they search.

Grampian Police are also continuing to carry out enquiries into the disappearance.

Over the last few days officers have visited a number of homes in the area where he was last seen.

Grant is described as being 5ft 7in tall, of slim build, short and with brown hair. He was wearing a light grey long sleeved T-shirt with a white collar, blue jeans and black shoes the last time he was seen.

Anyone with any information about Grant's whereabouts can contact Grampian Police on 0845 6005700 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.