Concerns grow for missing firefighter last seen in Lewes as search continues over Christmas

Anthony, 33, from Orpington, Kent, has been missing since Friday, December 20, and specialist teams from the emergency services have been carrying out searches in the area.

Chief Inspector Anita Turner said: “We have received support in the searches for Anthony from other emergency services and volunteers and for this we are extremely grateful. Members of the public have also been very helpful and we thank them for their support, however with the hazards posed by flooded areas we would ask the public to not search in these areas due to your personal safety.

“Despite it being Christmas, we are committed in our searches to find Anthony. Extensive house-to-house enquiries have been conducted and we are urging anyone who may have seen Anthony or have CCTV footage in this area to make contact with us. There is no information to say Anthony left the Lewes area and our searches will continue to focus in this location.

“There are increasing concerns for his welfare and there is a possibility Anthony may have come to harm but there is no current information to indicate that Anthony’s disappearance is due to crime.

“This will be an extremely difficult time for Anthony’s family and friends and we are seeking information and answers they so desperately need.”

Police said Anthony was visiting the Lamb pub in Fisher Street, when he became separated from his group. He was last seen there at around 7.30pm on Friday (20 December).

Extensive enquiries have been made in the Lewes area, with pubs, shops, fast food outlets, taxi, train and bus services being asked to look out for him. CCTV footage has also been reviewed as part of efforts to find Anthony, said police.

Anthony is described by police as white, approximately 6', of medium build and with medium-brown short gelled hair. He was wearing a black long-sleeve top, a dark denim suit-style jacket, dark denim jeans and black shoes.

Anyone who may have seen Anthony or who has other relevant information is asked to contact Sussex Police online or by phoning 101, quoting Operation Barnstaple. In an emergency, please dial 999.