Missing Horsham man found in Horley

A police helicopter and ground units were deployed in a bid to find 72-year-old Jim McNeill.

Mr McNeill was last seen by his wife at his home in Southdown Close, Roffey, before going for a walk at 8pm on Sunday.

Officers searched for the pensioner overnight and said they were ‘particularly concerned because of the freezing night time conditions’.

Sussex Police released a description of Mr McNeill and checked all local transport sites Monday morning (April 2).

He was found that afternoon near a Horley pub.

Detective Chief Inspector Pierre Serra said: “I am pleased to say that Mr McNeill was found on Monday afternoon at around 4.40pm, close to the Fox Revived public house in Horley where he was spotted by a member of the public earlier in the day.

“A Surrey police unit picked him up. He was very tired, having walked a long way, but otherwise unharmed by his experience.”

He added: “I should like to say a very big thank you to everyone who has assisted with the search, not least the media for their prompt co-operation with publicity, but in particular many members of the public for ringing in with sightings which ultimately led us to him.”

Mr McNeill has been described by Sussex Police as having good local knowledge and a passion for long-distance walks.

He had previously been found in Crawley and Lower Beeding.