THE family of a missing pensioner say they "are struggling to cope" as they made a fresh appeal for his return. 

Allan Burns, a 71-year-old from Kilbarchan, has not been seen for nearly a month, with extensive efforts carried out to trace him.

The dad-of-three suffers from dementia and was last seen on Friday, January 18, on the village's cycle path, near his home street of Barrhill Crescent, heading towards Lochwinnoch.

READ MORE: Search for missing pensioner focuses on Renfrewshire village

Recently, police chiefs confirmed the search for Mr Burns is being focused in and around Lochwinnoch. 

And earlier today, his family issued an urgent appeal for his safe return. 

The family said: "As a family we are struggling to cope and are extremely concerned for his safety and wellbeing.

"This is completely out of character for him and we urge anyone with any information whatsoever to come forward.

"We would like to thank the police and the local community for all their efforts in the search for Allan."

The Gazette: Allan Burns has not been seen for nearly a month Allan Burns has not been seen for nearly a month

Inspector Laura Hamill, of Renfrew Police Office, who is leading the search for Allan Burns, said: “We are continuing to ask those residents who live in or around the Lochwinnoch area to check their gardens, sheds and any outbuildings to make sure Allan has not taken shelter within.

“Although our searches are focused in the areas where Allan was last seen we would ask people living in the surrounding area contact us if they have any information to assist in our enquiries.

“We would like to thank the public for the assistance they have given us so far and we welcome any information that may help to find Allan.

“When last seen he was last seen wearing a grey tammy hat, a khaki green waterproof jacket with tartan lining, dark blue jeans, grey walking boots and a maroon and grey striped scarf.”  

READ MORE: Search for Renfrewshire pensioner continues

Anyone with information about Allan's current whereabouts is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101.