Police Scotland plea for information on missing hillwalker Derek Hepburn, from Nairn, who was last seen in the Highlands two years ago

Police have renewed an appeal for information on the disappearance of a Highland hillwalker last seen just over two years ago.

Derek Hepburn left his home in Nairn on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 and was last in contact with his family four days later.

It was thought Mr Hepburn, who was 53 at the time, intended to go walking in the Highlands and initial searches focused on the Moy area, 33 miles from his house.

But the keen hiker’s vehicle was found at the Loch Mullardoch Dam car park, Glen Cannich and enquiries suggested he had intended to complete a walk on Sgurr Na Lapaich or elsewhere in the surrounding area.

Mr Hepburn is described as 6ft 1in, of slim build, with black hair which is balding. He is normally clean shaven or with light stubble.

Police Inspector Craig Johnstone said: “It’s been two years since Derek’s disappearance and we continue to appeal for any information.

“We’ve carried out extensive searches for Derek using specially trained officers and equipment, but unfortunately we haven’t been able to find him.

“The area is popular with walkers and, although I appreciate it was a while ago, someone may remember seeing him or someone matching his description. I’d urge anyone with information to come forward.

“The area is vast and we don’t know the exact route Derek planned to take so I’d ask the public to consider the wider area when thinking back to the days around Sunday, April 24, 2022.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 1812 of 27 April, 2022.

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