Still searching for Geoffrey, a year on

Geoffrey Ralph is still missing

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A year since a Droylsden man went missing, police officers are still searching for Geoffrey Ralph.

On a warm July afternoon last year, 75-year-old Geoffrey left his house on Arbroath Street and never returned.

An avid walker, the extensive searches for Geoffrey have taken officers, volunteers and even neighbours around Hartshead Pike, Debdale Park and the canal between Clayton Vale and Daisy Nook.

Colleagues from mountain rescue and the National Police Aviation Service have also assisted with these searches to some of his favourite walking spots across Greater Manchester.

Still despite, hundreds of hours of searching since July 24, 2017, officers have not managed to bring Geoffrey home.

Geoffrey is described as white, of a slim build, around 5ft 6inches tall with short, grey hair and a white beard.

He has a Manchester accent and was wearing a black and grey raincoat with orange stripes on the sleeves, over a navy pullover and brown/beige trousers.

As he left the house, he was also wearing brown Timberland boots and a soft, green corduroy cap.

Detective Inspector Julie Maxwell, of GMP’s Tameside Borough, said: “Geoffrey is a father and a friend- and his family’s lives are on hold until we can reunite him with his loved ones.

“After Geoffrey left Arbroath Street, it is likely he would have headed to one of his treasured walking spots, where dog walkers, or park users may have seen him.

"If you were around Hartshead Pike, or using the canal between Clayton Vale and Daisy Nook this time last year- then you may have seen Geoffrey.

“Sadly, we still have very little information about his movements after he left home that day, so if you think you may have seen Geoffrey over the past year, please pick up the phone and let us know.

“It could be the smallest detail, but it could genuinely make all the difference in our search for this elderly man, who should be at home with the people who love him the most.

“Please, don’t just scroll past the video, take time to really look at Geoffrey and imagine how you’d feel if someone you love had been missing for a year.

“Help us find Geoffrey by sharing any information you have about his whereabouts to our local officers on 0161 856 6353.”

Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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