Urgent appeal to find dad-of-four missing after Christmas pub crawl

23 December 2019, 09:04

Fears are mounting for a firefighter who went missing during a Christmas night out.

Anthony Knott's family have launched an urgent appeal after he was last seen at The Lamb pub in Lewes, East Sussex, on Friday 20 December.

They have described his disappearance as "very out of character".

The dad-of-four went outside to make a call during the evening and could not be contacted from around 7.30pm onwards.

Anthony is described as white, around 5ft 8 with dark hair and was wearing a black long-sleeved top, dark denim jacket and dark jeans with black shoes.

Orpington Athletic FC, the team Anthony plays for, wrote on Twitter: "Our friend and player, Anthony Knott, didn't come home from his Xmas work's drinks. Last seen in the Lewes area, Sussex.

"Aged 33 wearing dark jeans and jacket.

"Last seen 10.30pm in The Lamb Of Lewes pub. VERY out of character and we are really worried."

His partner Lucy wrote on social media that it is "very unusual behaviour and that he would not intentionally leave.

She also confirmed that he has not used his bank card or phone since around 7.20PM.

He is considered "high risk", she wrote.

London Fire Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner for Fire Stations Jane Philpott said: “This is an extremely difficult time for Firefighter Knott’s family and our thoughts are with them, his friends and colleagues.

“The Brigade is continuing to support Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service with the search.”

Anyone who may have seen Anthony or who knows of his whereabouts is asked to contact Sussex Police online or by phoning 101, quoting serial 727 of 21/12.

Police also urge anyone who knows if Anthony is ill, injured or thought to be in danger to call 999 immediately.