POLICE have confirmed a search early yesterday afternoon was connected to the hunt for missing Derek Beattie.

As told by the Glasgow Times yesterday, Derek, from Harthill, was last seen talking to a man outside Grace's Bar in the city.

He then crossed King George V Bridge and headed in the direction of Commerce Street during the sighting around 7.35pm on November 27.

Officers in waterproof gear and using wooden sticks were seen combing the banks of the River Clyde near to Glasgow Sheriff Court yesterday around 12.30pm.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland confirmed "the activity was part of the investigation to trace missing person Derek Beattie from Harthill".

READ MORE: Missing Derek Beattie seen outside Grace's Bar

Derek, who is in his mid-30s, is around 5ft 9in tall, of slim build with red/auburn hair. He was last seen wearing a black Nike jacket with a white Nike logo and has a distinctive walk.

He was wearing glasses, a black jacket or jumper with a white shirt at the collar and black trousers.

Police believe that the man gave Derek directions to another location and they want to speak to that man. 

Inspector Hugh Burns, of Motherwell Police Station, said: “We are becoming increasingly concerned for Derek’s wellbeing.

"Officers have conducted extensive enquiries, including checking CCTV, in an effort to trace Derek.

“We are particularly keen to speak to the man who spoke to Derek outside of Grace’s Bar and I would urge this person to get in touch.

“I would ask if anyone has seen someone matching his description or anyone with knowledge of Derek’s whereabouts to contact with police.

“Anyone with any information is asked to come forward and speak to officers.”

Police can be contacted by calling 101 and quoting incident number 1541 of November 28.