A missing pensioner is believed to have fallen into the sea on the day he disappeared, police have said.
Albert Gray, 87, went missing from his home in Wideopen, North Tyneside, on Sunday morning and an urgent search was launched.
It was reported to police that Albert was seen getting off a bus in Amble on Monday and walking in the direction of the marina.
Several emergency service vehicles were then seen around the harbour as part of the continuing search.
CCTV images of Albert in the clothes he was believed to be wearing were also circulated in an attempt to track him down.
However, on Wednesday police said that it is believed he fell into the water at Amble pier.
A spokesperson for the force said: "Officers have now scaled back the search for missing North Tyneside man Albert Gray.
"Albert, 87, was last seen by his family on Sunday (February 2), after leaving his home on Weetslade Court, Wideopen.
"However, following extensive enquiries, unfortunately it is now believed that Albert fell into the sea at Amble pier on the same day of his disappearance.
"Our specialist officers continue to support his family at this incredibly difficult time and they have asked for their privacy to be respected.
"We would like to thank everyone who shared our appeal, reported information to officers and helped in our search for Albert."
