Police are continuing to search for Ardrossan dad Tony Lowey who has now been missing for three weeks.

Officers have carried out extensive searches from Ardneil Court right down to the bottom of Sorbie Road, including Elm Park.

Police now believe that Tony, 51, left his mum and dad’s house with three bags. One of the bags has been confirmed as a Sainsbury’s Bag for Life, but officers are still trying to officially identify the other two.

Chief Inspector Brian Shaw said: "Our concerns are very real and growing in respect of Anthony Lowey and our ground searching continues at pace.

"The response has been excellent and I continue to urge members of the community to ensure they are checking huts and outbuildings and any place where someone might take shelter."

Tony was last seen by a family member on Wednesday, December 27, when he was dropped off at his home in Hunter Avenue at around 3pm.

Last week, Tony’s sister Joanne spoke to the Herald about her family’s despair and begged for anyone with any information to come forward. Unfortunately, no trace of him has been found.

Inspector Colin Convery added: “Our focus now is supporting the family and trying to get them a solution one way or another. It’s still our number one priority.”