The family of Ged Doran have thanked the people of West Cumbria for all their support after a public search yesterday ended their six-day hunt for the 91-year-old.

Mr Doran, of Garnet Crescent, Salterbeck was found yesterday morning during an organised search which saw hundreds of people turn out to help.

Thousands of people also shared the appeal for information about Mr Doran's whereabouts on social media.

His family has released an emotional tribute to Mr Doran, thanking those who helped find him, along with the police.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thank you to the people of West Cumbria for your support during this very difficult time," they said. "Without you, we may never have found Ged. You have given up your time to search, checked hours of CCTV, and sent messages of condolence to the family.

"This is the West Cumbria that Ged loved and the place he called home for the last 91 years. Thank you.

"His memory will live on in our hearts and our words.

"We would also like to thank Cumbria Police and their partners for their professionalism, compassion, and determination over the last week. We could not have asked for a better service."

Mr Doran's funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.