The friend of an "intelligent and gentlemanly" father missing from Ewell has said he is very concerned by his out-of-character disappearance.

Desmond Carr, 55, was reported missing at 5pm yesterday, September 18, by a family member - although it is believed he was last seen earlier in the week.  

He has links to the Sussex area, including Brighton and St Leonards-on-Sea, and police believe he may have travelled to either location.

Police officers are also searching the Box Hill area of Mole Valley and working with colleagues in the Metropolitan Police area.

Mr Carr, who has lived in Ewell for a number of years but came from the Sussex area, worked at an advertising company for many years before joining Newsquest which owns the Epsom Guardian, 

He worked in London at Newsquest Direct for five years, an arm of the company which deals with inserts in newspapers.

He left three years ago but stayed in touch with colleagues for occasional drinks and catch-ups including Rhys Hughes, an account director at the company.

Mr Hughes said today that Mr Carr is separated from his wife and has three children - a teenage son and two daughters in their 20s - and "dotes on his family".

He said the disappearance was "completely out of character" and that he and Mr Carr’s other ex-colleagues were very worried.

Mr Hughes said: "Everyone really liked him. 

"He is very, very intelligent, a gentleman. 

"He is softly spoken and very educated.  And has big red hair.  He’s a pleasure to be around.

"I’ve never seen him in a temper. 

"For this to happen is completely out of character for him. 

"I would surmise that the police have taken a close interest in this because it’s so out of character."

After leaving Newsquest, it is understood that Mr Carr joined a consultancy company and then started working for an advertising or marketing agency.

Anyone who has seen Mr Carr or knows where he is should call the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Mr Carr is also urged to contact Surrey Police or the charity Missing People by calling 116 000.