'Please let us know if you're ok' - plea from dad of missing man last seen in the Highlands

The father of a man recently seen in the Highlands is appealing to him directly to let his loved ones know he is safe.

Thomas, also known as Tom, Crocker was seen in Wick on Wednesday (May 20th) afternoon.

A re-appeal from police has outlined there was a further sighting of him in Gairloch on Sunday morning and they believe he may be following the NC500 route.

UPDATE: Highland officers confirm missing man from Yorkshire has been found

The 32-year-old travelled to the North of Scotland from his home in North Yorkshire, he has access to a distinctive red former Royal Mail/Post Office van.

Police officers are also appealing to Tom directly, as concerns grow for his wellbeing.

Plea from family and police

Tom is described as 5ft 10in tall, of slim build with short dark hair and goatee style facial hair.

He was last seen wearing black combat trousers, black jumper and a beanie hat.

It's understood during the early evening of May 20th, he used his bank card at the Lidl in Wick.

The registration plate of the van he has access to is WM59 VNZ.

Joe Crocker explained how Tom has walked the Cape Wrath Trail, is used to wild camping and bothies, but isn't familiar with the East Coast.

He said: "I think he's taken off from the house in the Yorkshire Dales and has just been driving, driving north.

"He's then decided to lie low, I hope, is what he is doing. 

"What I'd be looking out for is the van anywhere if it's on the road, but I feel it's likely to be parked in a remote place where he could go off and hideaway.

"I am so hopeful the fact that he's actually bought provisions may mean he's just taking time out to sort his head out. 

"Tom if you do hear this, then please just let us know you're ok.

"That's all we need to know."

Police Sergeant Stephen Todd added: "We are concerned for Thomas' wellbeing and we're keen to trace him as soon as possible to ensure that he is safe and well.

"We believe that he may be following the North Coast 500 route after sightings in Wick and Gairloch.

"We ask anyone travelling on the route to please contact us if they have seen Thomas or his red van.

"We're also appealing directly to Thomas to please get in touch if he sees this appeal."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident 4161 of Friday, 22 May, 2026.