THE family of a man who disappeared more than a week ago are becoming increasingly worried for his safety.
Father-of-two John Michael Thomas Burke, 38, from Ellesmere Port, was last seen at about 9.30am on Saturday, August 7, as he and other family members were preparing for his sister’s wedding.
John, a labourer, had been getting ready with other male members of the wedding party when he said he was going to a local shop for cigarettes, but he never came back.
The family have grave concerns for John who has not been in contact with them for more than a week.
The family statement read: “John, please phone home or contact any of the family. We are all missing you so much. Whatever is wrong we can try to sort it out. All we want is for you to come home.
“If you feel for whatever reason that you can’t come home, phone or text to let us know that you are safe and well. Your children love and miss you.
“From Mum, Dad and family.”
It is believed John is on foot and does not have access to a car. He has family around the Ellesmere Port area.
Cheshire Police spokeswoman Jacqui Hanson said: “It is completely out of character for John to go missing, particularly on the morning of his sister’s wedding, and as such John’s family are deeply concerned and urging him to make contact either with a family member or with the police to provide re-assurance that he is safe and well.”
The search has taken divers to the nearby Manchester Ship Canal, Rivacre Valley, Eastham Country Park and Eastham Ferry.
John is described as a white male, about 5ft 4ins tall and of stocky build.
He has short dark hair, which is receding at the forehead. It is believed John is wearing a blue Adidas jacket with grey sleeves, blue coloured jeans and white trainers.
Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact police on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.