A large-scale helicopter search was carried out last night after a Royal Marine went missing in Angus.
Dozens of emergency service personnel were involved in the hunt for the marine based at Condor, home of 45 Commando, near Arbroath.
Police named him as Ralph Hebden (32). He is described as 6ft 4in, of muscular build and with short-cropped fair hair.
When last seen he was wearing black trainers, dark blue or black jogging bottoms and a blue fleece, and had a blue rain jacket with him.
He was last seen about 8am on Monday when he left his home in the town.
The coastline, including the cliffs near the town, was combed by coastguards and police late into the evening.
Conditions were poor, with searchers having to contend with almost zero visibility.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency confirmed it was involved.
“We are assisting in the search for a missing person in Arbroath,” a spokeswoman said.
“Crews from Montrose, Arbroath and Carnoustie are in attendance and the inshore lifeboat is in use from the Arbroath station. There is also a rescue helicopter 137 (Sea King from RAF Lossiemouth) involved in the search.”
The Sea King repeatedly swept the coastline, its searchlight being visible around the town.
The police said officers were helping in the search and that no further details were available as the operation was at “too early a stage”.
A spokesman for Arbroath lifeboat said: “We launched the inshore boat at 6.30pm obviously the all-weather lifeboat can be launched if it is needed.
“We are helping in the search for the missing marine along with Montrose and Carnoustie crews.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Tayside Police by dialling 101 or by speaking to any officer.