Storm safety warning as searches for man continue

Volunteers helping to look for a missing vulnerable, elderly man in Kenilworth have been urged not to put themselves in danger amid weather warnings.

The guidance from Warwickshire Police came as Storm Darragh approached the UK on Friday, with extreme weather predicted.

A rare red warning is in place for Wales and Bristol, and a yellow warning of wind is in place for the Midlands on Saturday.

John Taylor, 86, was last seen at Abbey Fields, next to Finham Brooke, shortly before 09:30 GMT on Tuesday.

The town's residents have been out at night, some using drones, while battling adverse conditions in the hunt.

Police have also used drones along with dogs and a helicopter, and a specialist team has carried out water searches.

On Friday, a spokesman for the force said: "The search is continuing today and there remains a large police presence in the area."

He said police were in regular contact with Mr Taylor's family and ensuring they get the support they needed.

However, he added: "We're keen to highlight that there is an extreme weather warning in place over the weekend and John's family are urging people not to put themselves in danger to help with the search.

"We're especially discouraging people from going searching in the dark."

Officers confirmed that all farm outbuildings in the area had been searched and asked people to avoid going into the structures, especially after dark, because it was alarming owners.

Police said they would keep the community updated over the weekend.

Any sightings of Mr Taylor can be reported on 999 and any other information that may be helpful can be provided on 101.

Follow BBC Coventry & Warwickshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.