Search for missing British hiker, 60, underway in south-west France

Authorities in the south-east of France have launched an appeal after a British man went missing in the Alps and has not been heard from since September 7.

Kirk Handley, 60, was holidaying in the Villar-d'Arène (Hautes-Alpes) area – his last known location – when he left on foot to travel towards the Col d'Arsine. 

His family back in Yorkshire in the UK where he lives declared his absence on September 13, however local gendarmerie in the department were not notified until September 22 (last Sunday) of his disappearance. 

He is said to be an adept mountaineer who had taken several mountain climbing holidays. 

Anyone who has information should contact the Briançon gendarmerie at 04 92 21 58 58.

Searches for Mr Handley began on Monday, however they were hampered by poor weather conditions. 

Authorities found a note in the vehicle he had rented – which he had left close to where he was staying in Villar-d'Arène – that he was planning to hike on foot until September 10, when he would return. They also found an outline of his itinerary in the vehicle.

They have found some of his camping gear including a bivouac tent near the Neige Cordier / Arsine mountain peaks. 

Searches will continue today, with the help of a local helicopter unit, now that weather conditions have temporarily improved. 

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