A helicopter has been brought in to help with the search for three elderly hillwalkers missing overnight in heavy rain and wind.

Jeffrey Stewart, 74, George Crosbie, 73, and Bobby Thomson, 64, have not been seen since heading off in the hills around Durisdeer in Dumfries and Galloway on Tuesday afternoon.

They told family they would be home by 3.30pm but relatives called the police two hours later when they failed to return.

Mountain rescue teams from Moffat, Galloway, Tweed Valley and Police Scotland carried out searches overnight but were hampered by driving rain and very strong winds.

Search dogs and a coastguard helicopter are now being used as police continue to scour the area.

Search co-ordinator Inspector Gordon McKnight said: "The weather through Tuesday evening and into Wednesday morning was very poor, however it is now improving which allows for the use of air support to assist the teams on the ground.

"We ask anyone who may have seen the three men to get in touch with us through the 101 number."

A police statement said: "Police in Dumfries and Galloway are becoming increasingly concerned regarding the welfare of three hillwalkers believed to be lost in the hills around Durisdeer since Tuesday afternoon.

"Police and Moffat Mountain Rescue Team have been carrying out searches in the area, however have so far been unable to find the missing men, all of whom are in their 60s and 70s.

"The search has been hampered by driving rain and very strong winds in the area.

"If you live in the Durisdeer area, please check any outbuildings you may have just in case they have taken refuge there, and let us know of any potential sightings of hillwalkers of that age."