Police appeal for help over missing uncle of murdered teenager

FEARS were growing for the safety of the missing uncle of a teenager whose body was found in woods last week.

Colin Ferguson, 46, was last spotted near a shrine for Jack Frew, 16, from East Kilbride.

Police said the whole family had been left devastated by the Duncanrig Secondary pupil's death.

Craig Roy, 17, appeared at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday charged with the teenager's murder. Roy, from East Kilbride, made no plea or declaration and was remanded in custody.

Mr Ferguson disappeared on Tuesday afternoon after he was seen walking along Belmont Drive where tributes to the teenager are understood to have been left.

Police said his disappearance was uncharacteristic and appealed for the public's help in tracing Mr Ferguson, who is diabetic. Search dogs and a helicopter crew have been assisting officers in the hunt.

Chief Inspector Neil Kerr said: "Jack's family have been through a horrific ordeal and everyone is still trying to come to terms with what has happened.

"Colin has never been missing before and would never normally go anywhere without letting his mother, whom he lives with, know where he was going.

"As the days pass we are becoming increasingly concerned for his wellbeing, especially given his medical history and recent events.

"I would like to appeal to members of the public to take a look at his picture, and if anyone recognises him to please contact us.

"I would also appeal to Colin to contact his family or police to let us know he is safe.

"His mother and the rest of the family are worried sick about him and just want to know that he is OK."

Mr Ferguson is described as white, about 5ft 8ins, and stocky with short black hair. He was wearing a beige jacket, black trousers and brown shoes.