Parents devastated over soldier's disappearance

The parents of a missing soldier have said they are "desperate to have him back" as police issued a fresh appeal for information a month after he disappeared.

L/Cpl Ryan Rudd, 28, was last seen in the early hours of 15 February on a night out at the New Inn in Selby and did not return to his barracks at Catterick Garrison.

Insp Ciaran Conlon, from North Yorkshire Police, said officers remained "open minded" about his disappearance but added "we must accept the possibility that Ryan has entered the River Ouse".

Parents Kerstin and Ken said: "As a family, we are devastated and struggling to put into words how we feel."

Police said since going missing, the soldier had not been in touch with any of his family, friends or colleagues.

The force said officers had trawled CCTV from across the area as well as carrying out door-to-door enquiries.

A spokesperson said specialist teams had "searched key locations on both land and water" using drones to look in hard‑to‑reach areas.

His parents added: "We would ask anyone who has even the smallest piece of information that could help bring Ryan home to please contact the police.

"We are desperate to have him back."

Insp Conlon said: "This is an extremely difficult time for Ryan's family, and they are currently receiving support from specialist officers.

"As with any investigation, we remain open minded and will continue to explore all lines of enquiry, but we must accept the possibility that Ryan has entered the River Ouse."

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