A solo sailor has been reported missing by his wife, sparking a search and rescue effort in Scotland.

Neil Mackenzie, 59, was sailing his 30ft sloop, Soltaire, from Arisaig in the Highlands to his home town of Aberdeen, via John O’Groats.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) received a call at around 1700 last night, but have so far been unable to locate Mr Mackenzie, who is believed to be an experienced sailor.

This morning Stornoway coastguard Murdo Macaulay said: ‘We’ve searched overnight in all the obvious places but haven’t found Solitaire.’

However it is understood that the boat has been discovered this afternoon at anchor south of Arisaig, but with no sign of Mr Mackenzie, who has no contact with anyone since September 14.

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