An 80-year-old man who went missing for more than two days on a walking trip to the Yorkshire Dales has turned up just as his family and police gathered to make a plea for help.

Harry Harvey, from Tynemouth, was reported missing on Sunday after he disappeared while out with an organised walking trip in Upper Swaledale on Saturday.

Police officers, mountain rescue volunteers and an RAF search and rescue team spent two days looking for Mr Harvey in the area around the famous Tan Hill Inn, which, at 1,732 feet (528m) above sea level, is Britain’s highest pub.

But, at lunchtime on Tuesday, he was found by a wildlife photographer who had seen appeals and noticed Mr Harvey waving at her from the direction of Keld, police said.

He was then reunited with his family who had gathered at the pub to make an emotional appeal for help, telling them how he had camped out after getting separated.

North Yorkshire Police said he was safe and well despite turning up with a bandage on his head.

Inspector Mark Gee, said; “This is fantastic news that Harry has been found safe and well.

“I want to thank all the search volunteers for their time, as well as gamekeepers, estate owners, farmers and local residents for their help and understanding.

“Thanks also to the Tan Hill, who looked after the volunteers and Mr Harvey’s family”.

Mr Harvey was reported missing at 1.30pm on Sunday and police said they thought he had probably got lost during the organised trip.

Officers said he was an experienced walker who was carrying camping gear, but were very concerned due to his age and the poor weather.