Man's disappearance 'out of character' - family

The family of a man who has been missing for 12 days have said it was "very out of character" for him to not be in touch with anyone for such a long time.

Robert Rees-Hughes, 35, from Easingwold, was last seen at about 15:10 GMT on Saturday 29 November on Crabmill Lane, and since then North Yorkshire Police has deployed drones and specialist search officers as part of efforts to locate him.

Mr Rees-Hughes is described as white, 5ft 3in (1.6m) tall, of medium build, and has dark brown short receding hair, with a gash to the top of his head. He was last seen wearing a dark waterproof jacket, grey chino jeans and walking boots, police said.

His family described him as a "gentle and loving person".

"His best friend is his five-year-old niece who he adores," they said.

"It is very out of character for Robert to go missing and not contact his family or friends, with whom he is very close to.

"We really encourage anybody to reach out with information, however small."

Insp Rory Sadler, from North Yorkshire Police, said officers were appealing for anyone with video doorbell footage or CCTV in the Boroughbridge, Easingwold and Thirsk areas from the time Mr Rees-Hughes was last seen to get in touch.

Meanwhile, people in those areas were urged to check any land and outbuildings.

"I would also urge anyone who is out walking in this area to remain vigilant," Insp Sadler added.

"Robert's family are understandably extremely concerned, and we are doing all we can to support them at this difficult time, as well as keeping them updated on our daily efforts to find him."

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