A FRIEND of missing Riccall man Simon Hodgson Greaves has urged him to get in touch, seven weeks after he disappeared.

Mr Hodgson Greaves’ van was found in the RSPB car park at Bempton Cliffs, near Bridlington, on December 21, but despite extensive searches in the area he has not been found.

John Paul, from Bedfordshire, became friends with Mr Hodgson Greaves 15 years ago, when they worked in the advertising department of the North London Gazette in Enfield.

Mr Paul said: “Simon, I hope you are able read this message and that you will get in touch as soon as possible. I want you to know that you can contact me anytime. You have helped me at the drop of a hat in the past and I will not hesitate to do the same for you.

“Your family are so very worried about you, and we all want to know that you are safe and well. Remember last year when we talked about going on a trip to somewhere like Ireland? Let’s make it a definite plan.”

Inspector Ian McNiff, of North Yorkshire Police, added: “Simon has been missing for over six weeks now and we urge him to contact either his friends, family, the Missing People charity or the police and let us know that he is safe. Simon, if you prefer, you can contact the Missing People charity in confidence if you do not want to speak to anyone.”

Mr Hodgson Greaves is white, about six feet tall, with a slim build, sandy hair, beard and moustache, blue eyes and thick black rimmed spectacles. He is known to dress very smartly and often wears tweed jackets, shirts and scarves.

Mr Paul said: “Simon is a generous and interesting person who thinks laterally and creatively. He is vivacious, thought provoking and inspiring. He often made you 'think' and certainly enjoys conversation and debate.”

Anyone with information on Mr Hodgson Greaves’ whereabouts should contact North Yorkshire Police on 01904 618691, select option 1 and speak to the Force Control Room. The Missing People charity is also appealing to the public to contact them with any sightings on 116000.