Missing man 'not feeling good' before disappearance in Aviemore as search enters second month

The mother of a man from London who has gone missing in Aviemore has said she “can’t bear the thought of him being cold, hungry, and alone” as the search enters its second month.

Marc Drostle has been described as “not feeling good” when he travelled to the Aviemore area on December 12.

The 28-year-old was seen in the Abernethy National Nature Reserve, near Nethy Bridge, between December 19 and 21 with the most recent sighting believed to have been in the Anagach Woods near Granton around 3pm on Christmas Eve.

Marc’s family said he has fond memories of Scotland from a childhood holiday and can walk for long distances but may not be in the right frame of mind to look after himself.

In statement, they said: “Marc has not been feeling good for some time, and we are very worried that he may not be thinking clearly enough to look after himself. We are worried about Marc surviving in the cold and we are hoping that he has found a barn or outbuilding where he can stay dry and out of the worst of the weather.

“Marc is a kind, funny and gentle person, who is a talented artist and works making mosaics with his dad in south east London. He has always loved being in the woods and has fond memories of Scotland from a family holiday when he was younger.

“Marc has an adventurous spirit and can walk for long distances, but it is not clear how he has been eating over the past two weeks. As his mum, I can’t bear the thought of him being cold, hungry, and alone.

“We are so grateful to local people for their kindness and support. The police have been working hard to find Marc and we really appreciate their efforts and commitment. We cannot wait to get Marc home and get him the help he needs.

“Please look out for Marc and let the police know as soon as possible if you think you may have seen him.”

Marc is described as white, around 5ft 9in tall, of slim build, and has dark hair. He is thought to be wearing a black puffer jacket and carrying a blue rucksack.

Inspector Craig Johnstone said: “Since Marc was reported missing, we have carried out extensive searches and enquiries across the area, but unfortunately, we have not yet been able to trace him.

“One month on, his family is understandably very worried, and we are continuing to ask for any information that could help us locate him.

“Marc is known to walk long distances, and it is possible he may have followed the course of the River Spey toward Moray. We are again asking anyone who lives near the river, frequently walks in the area or spends time fishing to report any sightings.

“We also ask residents and landowners to check any cabins, outbuildings, or sheds in case Marc has sought shelter from the weather conditions.

“Anyone with any information of where Marc may be should call Police Scotland on 101 and quote reference 1774 of December 21.”