Kayaker Dominic Jackson, missing in north-east Scotland

Police searching for a missing kayaker have pleaded with volunteers not to put their own lives in danger in their efforts to find him.

Dominic Jackson went missing after setting off from his Fettercairn home for a sea-kayaking trip in north-east Scotland on Friday.

He was reported missing on Sunday. Mr Jackson, 35, was heading for the Portsoy Harbour area. A kayak believed to have been used by him was recovered from the sea on the Lybster coast.

Searches have continued since he was reported missing.

Inspector Kevin Goldie, who is leading the Police Scotland operation, warned that with weather conditions not expected to improve today, highly trained specialist officers are needed to tackle more dangerous and challenging terrain.

Ross Greenhill, Coastguard coastal operations area commander, also urged members of the public volunteering to help search for Mr Jackson not to enter the water.

Inspector Goldie said: “Once again I would like to thank the volunteers who have turned out for their support both yesterday and today. I cannot stress how much it is appreciated and I know it has been a great source of strength for Dominic’s family at this difficult time.

“However weather conditions are not expected to improve today and as our search operation enters more difficult and challenging terrain, our priority must be your safety.

“I know that a number of volunteers have turned out with kayaks today to assist with the sea search. However given the conditions I would urge you to find other ways of supporting Dominic’s family.

“Police Scotland has specially trained staff who we are unable to deploy at this stage due to the deteriorating weather and dangerous conditions; I would advise members of the public also not to put themselves at risk.

“By no means does this mean the search is being scaled down, however we need the right people in the right places at this time. Our officers are trained in certain techniques and will be designated to certain areas. They have the skills and equipment needed to maximise the area we need to cover.

“As always, anyone with information about Dominic’s whereabouts at the weekend is urged to contact Police 101, no matter how insignificant you think your information might be.”

Dominic Jackson, who went missing after setting off for a kayaking trip

Mr Jackson’s green VW Transporter was found in the area. The last confirmed sighting of him was on Saturday morning between 10.30am and 11am when he asked some local people where the best kayaking spot might be.

The search for the missing paddler has covered a huge area, both on land and water, stretching from Buckie to Fraserburgh, with police officers joined by Coastguard members, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and a diving team, along with aircraft.

Mr Jackson’s family said: “We are desperately worried for Dominic and would urge him to make contact with his family or police to let us know he is OK. This is completely out of character and we just want him home.

“We would also like to thank local people who are assisting with the search.”