A major search operation has been launched for a man after a car was found abandoned on a motorway.

Police in Glasgow were called out in the early hours of Friday after the Volvo was seen dumped at the side of the M8 on the Kingston Bridge.

A man was also spotted standing on the road at around 4.15am and a member of the public called police.

When officers arrived the man was gone and a major search of the area, including the River Clyde, was launched.

Search teams including Police Scotland's helicopter were deployed and the force's marine unit continue to scour the river.

Officers are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.

A spokeswoman for Police Scotland said: "Police received a report a car had been abandoned on the west side of the Kingston Bridge and a man, believed to have been within the vehicle, standing on the roadway.

"On arrival of the emergency services, there was no trace of the man in the car, or nearby.

"As a result, an extensive search of the area, including the River Clyde, was carried out.

"The search, involving Police Scotland's marine unit, continues today."

She added: "Officers continue to conduct enquiries to trace the person who was using the vehicle last night to confirm they are safe and well.

"Although traffic would have been light at that time of the morning, officers are appealing to anyone who may have been driving past and perhaps saw the Volvo or the man to contact them.

"Anyone with any information is asked to call officers at Glasgow City Centre Police Office via 101."