Police helicopter searching for missing boy in Eastbourne

Police say they are ‘extremely concerned’ for Ben Gatward, a 14-year-old from Bexhill, and believe he could be in Eastbourne.

He was last seen going to bed in Barnhorn Road on Sunday (February 26) around 11pm. However he was not in bed when checked on at 10am this morning (February 27).

According to Sussex Police, Ben has learning and significant health difficulties and it is very out of character for him to go out on his own.

Missing person’s co-ordinator Shannon Marchesani said, “We are extremely concerned for Ben as he is very vulnerable because of his health and the fact he is not sure used to being by himself. We have searches for him in the Bexhill and Eastbourne area with local officers and are appealing for anyone who might have seen him this morning getting public transport to please contact police.”

Ben is believed to be wearing a claret and blue West Ham fleece and dark tracksuit bottoms, is 5ft 10ins tall and very slim.

Anyone who sees him is urged to call 999.