Police concerned about a missing man from Benfleet are appealing for the public's help to find him.

Darren Stedman hasn’t been seen since leaving his Benfleet address on July 21 and hasn’t been in touch with anyone since.

Inspector Walker, leading the investigation, said: “We’re concerned about Darren and want to make sure he’s okay.

“We’ve carried out extensive enquiries locally to try to find Darren, but we’ve been unable to find him so far.

“Our enquiries lead us to believe that Darren is still within Essex, so now we’d like to ask for the public’s help.”

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The 48 year-old is described as white and of medium build.

Darren has a shaved head and a ginger beard.

Officers say they are not sure what Darren may be wearing now.

The policing team inspector added: “Darren’s family and friends are very concerned and would love Darren to get in touch and reassure them that he’s safe.”

Mr Stedman was last seen by his neighbour and co-worker on Wednesday (July 20) evening, but after he failed to show for work, the co-worker called his sister.

His sister Donna Stedman, 49, told the Echo: “We are so worried about Darren and just want to know he is safe.” 

Anyone with information about Darren’s whereabouts is asked to call 999, quoting incident number 852 of 21 July. 

Anyone who is with him now should call 999.