Surrey Police has launched another search for a pensioner who went missing more than six months ago.

James Middleton – known as Jim – was last seen at midday on Sunday, July 2, when he left the Wells Estate on his mobility scooter heading towards Stew Ponds and the Christ Church Road area.

It’s been more than six months and the 70-year-old has not yet returned home or been found, despite police helicopters, drones, Surrey and Sussex Search and Rescue, trail bikes, boats and search dogs being scrambled and hundreds of volunteers searching for him.

A Facebook group, Find James Middleton, was set up after his disappearance, with residents searching nearby roads and fields and handing out thousands of ‘missing person’ flyers.

Surrey Police is today (January 22) scouring the Ashtead common area, with the search expected to last about three weeks.

Further searches are being carried out due to seasonal changes, with vegetation being less dense at this time of year.

Jim is described as white, about 5ft 6ins tall, of large build, with short brown-greying hair.

He was wearing a dark coloured body warmer, dark grey shorts, with white socks and blue trainers.

A spokesman for Surrey Police said: “Jim’s family and the local community routinely undertake their own organised searches for him and we are very grateful for this continued support.

“However, we ask that if anyone finds anything suspicious, including a blue scooter, please do not approach but call Surrey Police immediately on 101, or 999 in an emergency, quoting reference PR/45170070694.

“Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”