THE father of a young man who vanished ten days ago in the freezing weather today made a desperate plea for the safe return of his son.

THE father of a young man who vanished ten days ago in the freezing weather today made a desperate plea for the safe return of his son.

Adam Passfield, 22, was last seen at 3am on Saturday December 19 in Chelmsford after an evening out with members of the Heybridge Swifts Football Club.

Essex police said that officers, family and friends have been trying to contact Mr Passfield on his mobile telephone, but without response.

Kevin Passfield said: "He has never gone missing like this before. We were hoping that he would walk thorough the door on Christmas Day, embarrassed but safe and well.

"Adam, it's time to come home now. Whatever is keeping you from making contact can be overcome and we, as a family, are here to help you. We all need to see you are OK. You are not in any trouble.

"I want to say thank you to all his friends and the public for their support and to those who have already contacted the police with information. We urge anyone to come forward with any information to the police.

"We can only hope the New Year will bring good news.''

Marine unit officers will today continue scour the River Chelmer which flows through the town centre.

Adam is described as white, approximately six foot tall, of slim build, has short, straight brown hair and was wearing jeans, trainers and a red-chequered shirt with a black leather jacket.