Police update on dog walker who went missing as flood waters rose in North Wales valley

Police have issued an update on the missing man last seen near the Afon Conwy at Trefriw. North Wales Live last night reported that a major search had been launched for the man after he went missing yesterday.

This came as the river rapidly rose due to Storm Bert rain, melting snow and ice and the high tide. The police, HM Coastguard helicopter, fire service teams, and volunteers from Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Team and NEWSAR all searched the area last night, but the man was not found.

Police this morning issued this statement.

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They said: "A multi-agency search is underway this morning for a man who went missing in the Afon Conwy river near Trefriw yesterday. The man, in his 70s, was last seen around 4:30 pm on Saturday, 24 November. He was wearing a red Berghaus waterproof jacket and was accompanied by his dog.

"He had been walking with his wife near Gower Road, an area affected by significant floodwater following #StormBert. He is described as having short white hair, 6ft tall, wearing a black and red bobble hat, dark coloured waterproof trousers and brown walking boots. He also had on a heavy-duty white wool jumper and had on his person a black Samsung smart phone but no other ID. The dog is a black and white collie, with a black lead and a black regatta coat.

"Police, Coastguard, North East Wales Search and Rescue, the regional underwater search team and the fire and rescue service have been conducting a detailed search of the area since the incident. We are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen the man or have relevant information to come forward."

Chief Inspector Simon Kneale of North Wales Police, said: “This is a particularly difficult time for this gentleman’s family. Extensive searches are continuing this morning as part of a multi-agency response and officers are supporting his family. I would like to thank everyone who has assisted in carrying out extensive water based searches in extremely difficult weather and water conditions.

“Floodwater poses significant risks, often hiding dangers and being deeper than it appears. I would urge members of the public to always avoid walking or driving through floodwater—it’s never worth the risk. If you have information, please contact us on 101 immediately."