A MAN whose bloodstained car was discovered around 100 feet down a ravine sparking a massive hunt has been released by police after questioning.

Officers have been trying to piece together Eric Spalding's movements since the discovery of his car on Tuesday morning.

A search helicopter and tracker dogs had been drafted in to track down Mr Spalding, from Bromyard, after concerns grew about his safety following the discovery of his car in Ross-y-gwaliau, North Wales.

"He has been released without charge," said a North Wales Police spokesman. "Forensic tests have been carried out on bloodstains found in his car, but we have not yet got the results."

He added that "confidentiality" prevented him from revealing any details of the interviews between police and married Mr Spalding.

Following the incident, the 55-year-old hired a car from the nearby town of Bala, and was discovered driving in it after a tip-off by the member of the public after police informed the media they were looking for him.

After initial questioning he received "minor medical treatment", before further questioning at Dolgellau police station.

Mr Spalding's mother Jessie confirmed her son had disappeared from his Herefordshire home and said she had not heard from him since Sunday, August 27.