Ranulph Fiennes’ stepson appeals for funds to ‘locate and safeguard’ the explorer

Alexander Millington-Cotes is concerned for welfare of the 82-year-old, who hasn’t been seen in public for two years

The stepson of Sir Ranulph Fiennes has launched a crowdfunder to pay for “specialist legal advice” in an attempt to locate the explorer, who hasn’t been seen in public for more than two years.

Alexander Millington-Cotes, 31, has set a target of £55,000 for the fundraiser, to enable him to instruct lawyers to “locate and safeguard” Fiennes.

Millington-Cotes’ mother, Louise, from whom he is estranged, has lasting power of attorney in relation to Fiennes’ care, which her son wants to see revoked.

Friends and family are growing increasingly concerned for the welfare of the renowned expedition leader, who is 82 and has Parkinson’s disease.