The family of a 91-year-old Workington man, who was found after a public search this week, have found comfort in believing his last thoughts were of going to visit his beloved wife.

Gerard Doran, of Garnet Crescent, Salterbeck, was found on Wednesday, after around 300 West Cumbrians turned out to join the police in a major search, six days after he was reported missing.

And his grandson, Andy Doran, said the family believe Mr Doran had set out from his home to try and visit his wife Mary, known as Molly, who resides in a care home, at High Harrington

“He bought some orange cordial and sweets and he pointed in a straight line right towards the home where my grandma is,” explained Andy.

“It was almost as though his last thoughts were to go and see her, which is just a little bit of comfort for us.”

Andy also paid tribute, on behalf of the family, to the ‘overwhelming’ support they have received from the public, during the search for Mr Doran, who had Alzheimer’s.

“It was completely overwhelming the amount of support we have had from across West Cumbria,” he added.

“We had a search on Friday and up to 100 people turned out there but to see over 300 on Wednesday turn out, it just shows what it is to be West Cumbrian.

“If it hadn’t been for the public we may never have found our grandad and as a consequence we could never have settled and been able to start the grieving process.”

The family also thanked Cumbria Police and other agencies who have helped in the search and also members of the public who shared appeals trying to find him.

“People were telling us that they could relate to this as it could have been one of their family members and they just wanted to help,” added Andy Doran.

“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.”

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