Police located a 74-year-old man who had become lost in the grounds of Calke Abbey today (Wednesday) - and later had to be hospitalised.

But they used modern-day software to help them when the stressed man phoned police to say he had no idea where he was and needed assistance.

The search then began of the vast National Trust property near Ashby.

Officers from Swadlincote and Melbourne Safer Neighbourhood Teams used the what3words app to find him and he was taken to hospital in Derby.

The smartphone app has the slogan 'Never Get Lost Again' and it led officers to the man who was then treated by the ambulance service

The SNT Facebook page explained what happened and said: "Swadlincote/Melbourne/Hilton/Mercia Safer Neighbourhood Team officers responded to a call from a 74-year-old male who had called in stating he was in need of assistance somewhere within the grounds of Calke Abbey.

"He had no idea where he was and the search began of the vast woodlands and area.

"He was located by our super PSCO Andrea Thompson who comforted the male and administered first aid.

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"The officers used the what3words app app to assist other officers and East Midlands Ambulance Service to the scene.

"The male was taken to the Derbyshire Royal Hospital where he is in a stable condition."

Sgt Tarj Nizzer said: "I am very proud of the quick response from my team their enthusiasm and dedication never fails to surprise me, well done to all those involved ".