A MISSING man was found safe and well after the police helicopter was sent to find him.

Stephen Hamer, 80, of Broadhead Road, Turton, was found yesterday after disappearing for 15 hours. Although he had gone missing for short periods in the past, his family became concerned the longer he was gone because he did not have his medication with him.

Greater Manchester Police's helicopter used a loud speaker to search for the man in the Tonge Moor and Bradshaw Brow area of Bolton.

He was found and taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital for a check-up before going to his sister's house.