Missing St Leonards man

Mr Lane, aged 73, was reported missing from his home in St Leonards, Hastings, on Wednesday evening (January 21).

He was last seen by his wife on Wednesday afternoon, who reported him missing when he failed to return from his usual afternoon walk. His disappearance is out of character.

Police immediately made local searches and have extended these to include the nearby beaches where Mr Lane often walks. House to house enquiries have been made and concern is growing because Mr Lane is asthmatic and is also an insulin dependent diabetic. He did not take his medication out with him.

Mr Lane is described as white, 5' 7" tall, with short grey hair, balding at the back, and a short grey beard. He was last seen wearing green/grey trousers and a checked jacket.

Detective Inspector Paul Phelps said: "We are growing increasingly concerned for Mr Lane and he has not taken his medication. Members of the public should be aware he may appear dazed or confused, as if under the influence of alcohol, due to his illness.

"We have made extensive inquiries and searches locally and would appeal to anyone who thinks they may have seen him to contact us. Also, I would urge local people to search their property as we are worried that he may be outside in this terribly cold and wet weather. Anyone with information should contact police on 0845 60 70 999."