Police search for missing Sharpthorne man

Anthony Horswill was last seen by his wife at their home in Marlpit Road at 12.30pm when he went out to buy a newspaper from his local Costcutters shop.

The alarm was raised shortly before 6pm and a search was launched, but a police helicopter was unable to attend because of poor weather conditions.

Inspector Tony McCarthy said: “We are very concerned for Mr Horswill. He has recently had an operation and requires regular medication, which he is not thought to have with him and is not particularly mobile. He has a small amount of cash on him, but it is likely that he has not ventured far.

“We have searched his regular haunts and areas around his home, but would ask everyone locally to check their gardens, sheds or similar outdoor buildings to make sure that he hasn’t sought shelter there. It has been a cold, damp night and it is obviously essential that he is found as quickly as possible.

“He is described as white, of slim build and quite tall at 6ft 4in. He has short grey hair, may be wearing glasses and was last seen in a navy bomber jacket, navy trousers and black leather shoes.

“If you have seen him, please call us on 101 quoting Operation Carpenter. However, if you see him, know of his whereabouts or he is in need of medical attention, please call 999 immediately.”