THE search of a river for a man who has been missing for two months has been delayed because of high water levels.

William Elder, 81, was last seen leaving his home in James Court, Pitlochry, at around 10.45am on Tuesday December 10.

The search has focussed around the River Tummel but recent heavy rain has swollen the river and made it fast flowing, meaning police divers have been unable to search the water.

Sergeant Caroline McNaughton said: "Given his age and time missing and the last sighting of William, we are concerned that there is a possibility he may have fallen in the River Tummel whilst walking in the area."

She added that the search would take place as soon as the conditions were safe.