A MAJOR search was underway today for a young man who disappeared while enjoying a night out with friends in Chelmsford.

Annie Davidson

A MAJOR search is underway for a young man who disappeared while enjoying a night out with friends in Chelmsford.

Adam Passfield has not been seen or heard from since the early hours of Saturday morning when he was in the Chicago Rock Caf� with a group of friends.

The last known sighting of the 22-year-old was at 3am on Saturday in the Moulsham Street nightclub.

His frantic family reported him missing yesterday afternoon when he failed to return home to Sharpington Close in Galleywood and could not be contacted on his mobile phone.

Specialist search teams were yesterday searching Chelmsford town centre and a stretch of the River Chelmer for clues to Mr Passfield's whereabouts.

Officers were also examining CCTV footage to try and piece together his last known movements.

Police said Mr Passfield had been drinking alcohol but was “not severely drunk” when he disappeared.

Investigating officer, Detective Inspector Stuart Truss, said: “This is totally uncharacteristic of Adam. “He has never gone missing before and his disappearance is causing us a lot of concern.

“It is just as worrying for his family who are distraught.

“We would urge anyone who knows of Adam's whereabouts to get in touch with us immediately.

“As we are experiencing cold, wintry conditions we are anxious about his health.

“Adam was in Chicago's for a long time so we would be interested in hearing from anyone who saw or spoke to him after 3am early Saturday morning.”

Adam was described as white, around six foot tall, of slim build, and with short, straight brown hair.

He was wearing jeans, trainers and a red-chequered shirt with a black leather jacket.

Anyone with information in connection with this missing person enquiry is urged to contact detectives at Chelmsford police station on 0300 333 4444.