Van discovered in Drum Castle car park amid search for Peterculter man

A van belonging to a missing hillwalker has been found amid a search for him in a car park in Aberdeenshire.

49-year-old Keith Gauld was reported missing from Peterculter on Thursday, July 9.

In an update, Police Scotland said that a Citreon Berlingo van belonging to him has been discovered in the car park of Drum Castle, Aberdeenshire.

Enquiries so far have established that Mr Gauld was in the North Deeside Road area at around 7.45am on Tuesday, July 7 and had made contact with a family member later that night.

He is described as white, around 5ft 8ins tall, and of an athletic build, with brown, greying hair.

It is not known exactly what he is wearing but it may be a t-shirt, a fleece, jeans and walking shoes.

Inspector Rae Christie said: “I would like to thank the public for their help so far as we work through information received. I continue to appeal for any information or possible sightings to be reported to police via 101.

“Extensive searches are being carried out in Drum Castle, Peterculter and surrounding areas. If anyone has been in these areas and has any information which could help our enquiries, please get in touch.

“Although Keith is an experienced hillwalker, as time passes without confirmed sightings or contact with family and friends, we’re growing increasingly concerned.

“Keith: if you see or hear about this appeal, get in touch with us so we can ensure you are safe and well.”

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 1157 of Thursday, July 9, 2026.