LIVE: Search operation by SEMRA for missing elderly walker who did not return to their car

South Eastern Mountain Rescue Association (SEMRA) were called out on Friday evening at around 5.30pm by An Garda Síochána to assist in the search for an elderly walker who had not returned to their car.

Search and Rescue Dog Association (Ireland) team member Winnie and her search dog Flame were first on the scene and immediately began searching the area where the walker was last seen.

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At the same time, SEMRA’s Land Rover crews patrolled forest tracks while additional volunteers gathered to extend the search area. Gardaí also carried out checks along nearby roads in case the walker had exited through another entrance.

The search came to a positive conclusion when a second SEMRA Land Rover, approaching the rendezvous point, spotted a walker matching the description emerging through a gap in a hedge.

The individual was quickly reunited with their vehicle and anxious family members.

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Although wet and cold after the ordeal, the walker was otherwise unharmed. SEMRA described it as an “excellent outcome” as darkness was setting in on a damp evening.