'Please help us find our much-loved son'

Seb sitting outdoors at a picnic table smiling at the camera, wearing a coat and hoodie. His dog - a golden-Labrador type - is next to him.Image source, Family handout
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Sebastian's family say they are 'extremely anxious'.

  • Published

The family of a missing 21-year-old man, last seen six days ago, have appealed to the public for fresh information about the whereabouts of their "much-loved son".

Sebastian Sailes was last seen at Lovers Walk, Chippenham, Wiltshire, at 23:30 GMT last Thursday, and is thought to have then headed along Avon Valley Walk towards his home in Notton.

A large operation has been launched, with scores of volunteers joining police in the search.

His family said: "We are a very close family and are all extremely anxious and praying for the safe return of our much-loved son Sebastian."

On the left, a grainy CCTV image showing Seb from behind walking wearing jeans and a jacket. On the right, a portrait photo of Seb smiling at the camera.Image source, Wiltshire Police/family handout
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Seb was spotted on CCTV on Lovers Walk in Chippenham (left)

"We are unbelievably grateful for the efforts of the police and all the amazing volunteers," they added.

Wiltshire Police said they are now investigating the possibility that he may have gone towards Rowden Hill.

A family photo of them together - three young men stand at the back with parents sitting in front, the middle-aged man wearing a santa hat.Image source, Family Handout
Image caption,

His family say they are 'close' and are 'praying for his safe return'.

Ch Insp Ben Huggins said police are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.

"Many of our enquiries have taken place around the river but we are also investigating the possibility that he has made his way towards Rowden Hill and through the new estates," he said.

Seb was wearing a beige jacket, light blue jeans and white trainers.

Ch Insp Huggins has urged people to check their doorbell footage. He also appealed to motorists - including delivery and taxis drivers - to look at their dashcam video.

A red postbox with a missing poster for Sebastian Sailes.
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A large search operation is underway for Sebastian - missing posters are all over Chippenham.

His family added: "The public support has been heart-warming, and we appeal to anyone who may have information to contact Wiltshire Police immediately, in the hope that our beautiful boy is returned to us safe and sound."

Police have thanked Wiltshire Search and Rescue volunteers along with other organisations in the region who have been helping in the search.

A body was found in the search, but it was not Sebastian.

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