Cheshire Police say Sir Ranulph Fiennes is receiving suitable care and living in an appropriate setting, after friends and relatives raised concerns about his welfare and difficulty contacting him. The force says it investigated and found no immediate safeguarding concerns, while asking the public to respect his privacy and avoid speculation.

Fiennes, 82, has Parkinson’s and has not been seen publicly for more than two years. His stepson says he has struggled to locate him and sought investigations by Cheshire and West Mercia police; West Mercia says Cheshire is leading the matter. Friends and supporters, including Bear Grylls and Ben Fogle, have voiced concern, while claims that Fiennes has been isolated and moved between care homes remain allegations.