Stepson Urges Police to Find Missing Explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes
Alexander Millington-Cotes, the stepson of legendary explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, says police have ignored his repeated requests for help locating his 82‑year‑old stepfather. With Fiennes missing from a Welsh care home and reports of unlawful deprivation of liberty, the family is demanding a swift…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Alexander Millington‑Cotes, the stepson of renowned adventurer Sir Ranulph Fiennes, has publicly accused police of ignoring his pleas to find his 82‑year‑old stepfather. The claim comes amid growing concerns over Fiennes’ welfare after a care home in Wales reported serious wellbeing issues to authorities. Millington‑Cotes has not seen his stepfather for more than a year and has received no response from several police forces, prompting him to launch a GoFundMe campaign that has already raised over £6,500.
Who is Sir Ranulph Fiennes?
Sir Ranulph Fiennes is a British explorer celebrated for his record‑breaking expeditions, including the first solo crossing of Antarctica and the first person to walk the length of the Amazon River. His achievements have earned him a knighthood and a place in the annals of adventure history. In recent months, however, Fiennes’ health has deteriorated, and he has been placed in a care facility in Wales for seven weeks.
Allegations of Unlawful Deprivation of Liberty
The Care Inspectorate of Wales has issued an email to the care home owner stating that Fiennes is being “unlawfully deprived of his liberty.” The Inspectorate’s spokesperson explained that under the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) framework, care providers must obtain local authority approval and notify the Inspectorate when a resident is under continuous supervision and unable to leave. The lack of such formalities has raised serious legal and ethical questions about Fiennes’ treatment.
Stepson’s Efforts to Locate His Father
Millington‑Cotes has reached out to multiple police forces, including Cheshire Constabulary, where Fiennes was last known to be housed, and West Mercia Police, covering Shropshire where the family’s home is located. Despite repeated attempts, he reports no contact from the authorities. He visited the Cheshire care home last week and was told by staff that Fiennes was not present. The stepson has expressed frustration at the lack of transparency, stating, “It’s a real challenge because I don’t think anyone quite knows where he is.”
To raise public awareness and gather resources, Millington‑Cotes launched a GoFundMe page titled “Find Sir Ranulph.” The campaign has attracted donations exceeding £6,500, reflecting growing public concern. The stepson also highlighted the emotional toll, noting he has not been able to speak to Fiennes and is uncertain about the explorer’s preferences for care, whether at home, in a familiar setting, or even abroad in the Caribbean.
Police and Care Home Response
Both West Mercia and Cheshire police forces have yet to respond to inquiries from The Independent. The care home owner in Wales has reported multiple wellbeing concerns to the Care Inspectorate, but no definitive action has been taken to locate Fiennes. The lack of communication has fueled speculation that the explorer may be hidden or that his whereabouts are being concealed.
What Happens Next?
With the investigation still pending, the family is calling for a swift and transparent inquiry into Fiennes’ location and the conditions of his care. Legal experts suggest that the DoLS framework mandates a formal assessment of Fiennes’ capacity and rights. If the care home fails to comply, the Care Inspectorate could impose sanctions or mandate a transfer to a facility that meets legal standards.
Meanwhile, the GoFundMe campaign continues to gather support, and the public is urged to share any information that could help locate the missing explorer. The situation remains unresolved, with the next steps dependent on police cooperation and regulatory action from the Care Inspectorate of Wales.
Why This Matters
The case highlights the vulnerability of elderly care recipients and the importance of safeguarding their rights. It also underscores the need for clear communication between families, care providers, and law enforcement when a loved one’s wellbeing is at stake.
Key facts
- Sir Ranulph Fiennes, 82, missing from a Welsh care home
- Stepson alleges police have ignored his requests
- Care Inspectorate of Wales cites unlawful deprivation of liberty
- GoFundMe campaign raised over £6,500
- No response from Cheshire or West Mercia police
- Family demands swift investigation
Why it matters
The situation underscores the critical need for transparent care and legal safeguards for elderly residents, while also spotlighting the potential gaps in police responsiveness when a public figure’s welfare is in question.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) framework?
DoLS is a legal framework in the UK that ensures individuals who lack capacity are not unlawfully deprived of their liberty in care settings. It requires formal assessment and approval from local authorities and notification to the Care Inspectorate.
How can the public help locate Sir Ranulph Fiennes?
Anyone with information about Fiennes’ whereabouts can contact the local police force, the Care Inspectorate of Wales, or share details on the GoFundMe campaign page to aid the search.
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Ranulph Fiennes’ stepson claims police have ignored him in search for explorer”
