The family of a young man who vanished after a dance in the Highlands have thanked hundred of people involved in the search, adding that they are 'overwhelmed' by the support.

Lachlan Simpson, 22, was last seen leaving the Dornoch show dance almost a week ago and people have been turning up to support the police efforts to find him in the town every day.

Ahead of this morning's latest efforts to trace him, Mr Simpson's relatives made a direct appeal to Mr Simpson to get in touch.

In a statement issued a statement issued through Police Scotland, the family said: "We are extremely grateful to everyone searching.

"We are overwhelmed by the support shown by our local community and those who have travelled near and far to assist the emergency and rescue services.

"Knowing so many people care about Lachlan and are willing to help is a great comfort to us.

"We just want Lachlan to be safe."

Mr Simpson, from the nearby village of Embo, had been drinking in Dornoch last Saturday afternoon and into the evening.

He had left the village to go down to the local show ground on Dornoch Links and was last seen there at 1.30am on Sunday speaking to friends.

The family said they hoped that Mr Simpson could see the messages of support and said that they loved and missed him.

The statement added: "Lachlan, if you can see these messages, we love you and miss you and just want you to come home. Please make contact so we know you are ok.

"We'd like to appeal to all of Lachlan's friends who saw or spoke to him on Saturday night to get in touch with the police on 101.

They urged anyone with information, no matter "how insignificant" they think it may be to "assist in bringing Lachlan home to us."

Searches are planned to resume today from 10am to 6pm with helpers urged to meet up at Dornoch Social Club.

Dozens of volunteers have joined police teams, search and and rescue dogs, coastguard and an RAF mountain rescue team in the search efforts so far for

Chief Inspector Iain MacLelland said: "I would like to say once again how grateful police, partners and Lachlan's family are for the ongoing support of the local community and beyond. With your help we are able to cover search areas quicker and work towards our aim of finding Lachlan."

Mr Simpson is described as 6ft, of slim to medium build and with short fair hair.

He was wearing a green and white top.