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Ranulph Fiennes' stepson speaks to police over welfare fears after explorer 'spent year in care homes under fake names'

From the Newshound archive · first published 28 September 2026 · last updated 30 September 2026.

Sir Ranulph Fiennes, who has Parkinson's and has not been seen publicly for two years, with friends including Bear Grylls demanding a full investigation into his welfare.
Sir Ranulph Fiennes, who has Parkinson's and has not been seen publicly for two years, with friends including Bear Grylls demanding a full investigation into his welfare.

Alexander Millington-Cotes, 31, says Cheshire Police contacted him in recent days over his concerns about his stepfather Sir Ranulph Fiennes, 82, giving him hope that the case is being taken seriously. The famous explorer has not been seen in public for two years and is in the care of his wife Louise, who holds power of attorney. Fiennes is now believed to have returned to his remote Shropshire farmhouse after reportedly spending over a year in care homes across London, Cheshire and Wales under fake names.

Fiennes' wife has been accused of isolating him from friends and family and refusing to reveal his whereabouts.

A Welsh care regulator found the arrangements at one care home amounted to a deprivation of Fiennes' liberty.

Cheshire Police said on Monday they had no 'safeguarding concerns' — but Millington-Cotes says friends believe officers do not have the full picture.

MoreThe GuardianRanulph Fiennes’ stepson says he is in contact with police about explorer’s wellbeingThe IndependentRanulph Fiennes ‘has returned to secluded farmhouse home’ after months spent living in care homes under fake namesThe Independent on MSNSir Ranulph Fiennes 'back home' after concerns over his whereaboutsThe Independent on MSNSir Ranulph Fiennes believed to be back home at Shropshire farmhouse
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