Search continues in Angus for missing Royal Marine

A MAJOR search of the Angus coastline was continuing today for a missing Royal Marine from the 45 Commando base at RM Condor in Arbroath.

Ralph Hebden, 32, has been missing from his home address in the town since 8am on Monday morning and Tayside Police said today that they were “very concerned for his welfare.”

A Sea King search and rescue helicopter from RAF Lossiemouth, together with dozens of emergency service personnel were involved in a search of the Angus coastline yesterday which continued late into the evening.

A spokesman for Tayside Police said: “Tayside Police are keen to trace, and very concerned for the welfare 32 year old Ralph Hebden, who is missing from his home address in Arbroath.

“Ralph is described as 6ft 4 inches tall, muscular build, with short cropped fair hair. When he was last seen he was wearing black trainers, dark blue or black jogging bottoms, blue fleece and had a blue rain jacket in his possession.

“Ralph was last seen about 8am when he left his home address, on Monday 11 March. Anybody with any information is asked to contact Tayside Police by dialling 101 or speak to any Police Officer.”

A spokeswoman for Tayside Police said that the marine had gone missing after setting out for a run near the steep cliffs on the outskirts of Arbroath.

She said: “The missing person is a serving Royal Marine whose home address is in the Arbroath area. The reason for our concern is that it is out of character for him to go missing,

“When he was last seen he intended on going for a run near the Arbroath cliffs. There will be further searches in the Arbroath area today.”

A spokeswoman for Tayside Police said that the search for Mr Hebden has been extended today to checks on CCTV footage from the area as well as bus and train companies.

She said: “Following an extensive search of the coastal area in Arbroath last night, officers continued the search for Ralph today, including reviewing CCTV and making enquiries with local public transport, with further searches in the Arbroath area planned.

“Police are working closely with officials at RM Condor, where Ralph is presently based as a Royal Marine.”

She added: “Anyone who knows where Ralph is or who has information that could assist Tayside Police in tracing him should call 101 or speak to any police officer.”