A former British physician has disappeared in the French Pyrenees.
Tom Doherty, aged 67, from St Albans, was trekking and camping near Col d’Escots when communication was lost with his family on Tuesday.
His daughter, Rachel Doherty, revealed that the last communication they had from Mr Doherty was just after 7pm on WhatsApp.
He messaged them seeking assistance and informed them that he had tripped and was unable to mobilize.
Ms Doherty stated: ‘He had been sharing a few images of the landscapes and then on Tuesday afternoon sent us one of clouds encroaching over a mountain. He exclaimed “oh no”.
‘We cautioned him to be cautious and implored him to descend.
‘The final communication we received from him was on Tuesday. He informed us about the fall and his inability to move. That’s all the information we have had since. His vehicle has been located by the search team.
‘We are deeply concerned and anxious about his well-being.’
Mr Doherty, a grandfather with three daughters and one son, known for his enthusiasm and experience in hiking, commenced his journey in the Pyrenees on Saturday.
His wife and one of his children have been present at his most recent known location since Wednesday morning.
Ms Doherty is currently en route to France to join the search operation.
A search mission involving dogs and helicopters is currently in progress.
As per his family, the former doctor was a renowned specialist in Tropical medicine who had a global footprint and expertise in Malaria.
Having retired nearly ten years ago, he has predominantly resided in France.
A representative from the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office stated: ‘We are in contact with the local authorities and providing assistance to the family of the missing British citizen in France.’
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