Police officers rescue elderly man missing for more than 30 Hours in freezing woodland

Nottinghamshire Police response officers have been praised for their heroic efforts after rescuing an 83-year-old man who had been missing for more than 30 hours in dense woodland in freezing conditions.

The elderly man, who suffers from dementia, was last seen walking near the Queen’s Medical Centre around lunchtime on Thursday, 23 October, before being reported missing.

A large-scale search operation was launched immediately.

Following further enquiries suggesting the man may have entered dense woodland near Wollaton Golf Course, officers began a targeted search just after midnight on Saturday, 25 October.

Despite the challenging terrain and complete darkness, PC Jimi Knowles, PC Jak Walker, and PC Mulcahy pressed forward with the search.

Within minutes, the officers located the man lying on the ground wearing only a t-shirt. He was suffering from hypothermia, with a body temperature of just 33°C.

Additional officers and emergency service responders were called to the scene to assist in carrying the man out of the woodland on a stretcher. He was taken to hospital for treatment.

Inspector Andy Wright, who oversaw the response, commended the officers for their determination and bravery. He said:

“The actions of the officers involved have undoubtedly saved the life of this man. It is extremely unlikely he would have survived the night. The man appears to have been lost in the woodland in cold and wet conditions with no suitable clothing.

“Had it not been for the perseverance of the officers to progress the search overnight and then bravely trudge through dense woodland to locate him, the outcome would have been far different.

“Response officers are a vital part of our police service and are often there in people’s hour of need.

“We hope the man makes a full recovery.

“This incident also highlights the critical role of frontline officers and their unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable members of the community.”