The good work of police officers and the North East Wales Search and Rescue Team that led to locating a vulnerable 55-year-old missing from home within hours of his disappearance has been recognised by a Divisional Commander.

Chief Superintendent Ruth Purdie, Commander of the Eastern Division, thanked all involved in the search for the vulnerable man who went missing from a nursing home in the Wrexham area last night (Monday, April 28). Both police officers involved and members of the partnership involved in the search are now to be nominated for commendations.

Police received a call just after midnight stating that the man had gone missing. A full scale search was launched for the vulnerable man, which involved officers, members of the North Wales Search and Rescue Team, the Search and Rescue Dogs Association and the North Wales Police helicopter.

Thanks to the sterling work of all involved, the 55-year-old was found safe just after 6am this morning a distance away from the home.

Chief Supt Purdie said: “The co-ordinated search for the man in the Wrexham area was excellent, especially the work of Huw Birrell and Ian Ashcroft and their team from the North East Wales Search and Rescue together with SARDA."

She added: “I have no doubt that the actions of those involved saved the man’s life.”