THE family of missing Saltcoats man Corry Ferguson say the last few weeks have been "some of the hardest we have ever faced" as the search for answers goes on.

Corry, 26, disappeared from his hometown on Tuesday, March 1 with extensive searches and enquiries continuing since the last sighting of him at the Spar shop on Wheatley Road at around 9.35am that morning.

An organised search took place in Stevenston at the weekend and further hunts are planned, with police saying they are becoming "extremely concerned" for Corry’s welfare.

A statement released by his family today (Wednesday) said: "Corry is a much-loved member of our family and these last few weeks have been some of the hardest our family has ever faced.

“We are a close family and for us not to see or speak with Corry for this long is just so out of character. It feels like he has completely vanished and we have no idea where he has gone.

“We are overwhelmed by the incredible support from the people of Saltcoats - their help with searching, posters and putting things on social media has been amazing. We are so grateful for all the help we have received from everyone in the Three Towns and would like to thank everyone for what they have been doing.

“Please continue to keep Corry in your thoughts and know that we will forever be grateful for your kindness. We would appeal for anyone who has any information about Corry come forward and tell us and the police. Corry, if you are reading this, then please come home, we miss you so much.”

Corry is described as white, around 6ft in height and of slim build with brown hair. When he was last seen he was wearing a black parka jacket, a green hooded top, grey jogging trousers, white trainers and a black baseball cap.

Inspector Barry McNaught said: “As more time passes, we continue to be extremely concerned for Corry’s welfare.

“We ask for anyone with any information on his whereabouts or any potential sightings to please come forward as soon as possible. You can call police on 101, quoting incident 1113 of March 3.”