Officers are appealing for information to help trace a missing Royal Navy sailor who is originally from Evesham.

Josh Gayton, age 21, was last seen on CCTV walking alone, away from Helensburgh town centre in Scotland, towards the footpath on East Clyde Street, near to Lomond Street, at 12.46am on Tuesday, April 16.

Extensive enquiries are ongoing and CCTV reviews have revealed that a man matching Josh’s description was seen speaking with a member of the public at 12.25am outside Riva restaurant on West Clyde Street.

The person has been asked to contact police as a matter of urgency.

Further CCTV reviews have identified two vehicles which may have driven past Josh as he is walking on East Clyde Street between 12.15am and 12.46am.

The first vehicle appears to be a white or light-coloured Mini.

The second vehicle is a blue van, similar to a Ford Titanium Connect.

It may have had red writing on the van and alloy wheels and the drivers of either of these vehicles are also asked to contact police.

Josh is described as 5ft 9ins in height, of stocky build, has brown hair and a red/brown beard. He speaks with an English accent. He was wearing a grey Nirvana t-shirt, black trousers, white Nike trainers and a silver chain with a cross.

He was reported missing after concerns were raised he did not attend work at nearby Faslane Naval Base.

Local area commander chief inspector Allan Dickson said: “It is unusual for Josh to not be in touch with anyone and we are concerned about him.

“We have significant resources dedicated to this enquiry and we are urging the public to come forward with any information relating to his whereabouts.

“If you were in the area at the time, please think back, did you notice anyone matching his description? I am particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have dashcam footage showing Josh, or the two vehicles which may have driven past him between 12.15am and 12.46am.

“If anyone has seen Joshua, or has any information as to his whereabouts, please contact police. I would also urge people who live in the area to check outbuildings and sheds.”

An increased visible police presence and Navy personnel will be in the Helensburgh area carrying out searches over the coming days.

CI Allan Dickson said: “We are working closely with a host of specialist officers in order to maximise our response. You will see increased activity in the area, please do not be alarmed.

“We have adopted a multi-agency approach to this enquiry, assisted by the Royal Navy and Ministry of Defence police, and searched will be carried out by land, sea and air.

“Anyone with any information can contact any of these officers, or call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident 0732 of Tuesday, 16 April, 2024.”