EXCLUSIVE By Craig Scott
THE FRANTIC family of a missing British expat have issued an urgent appeal for information on his whereabouts.
Interpol has also now joined the search for Mancunian Gary Butcher, 48, who has not contacted friends or relatives since apparently moving to Nerja in June, 2011.
The father-of-two, who previously lived in Benalmadena – where he worked at Bar Discovery – is described as white, 6ft 1ins tall and of medium build.
He has a shaven head, blue eyes, and one-inch scar on his chin.
A manhunt for Butcher involving Manchester Police, Interpol and the British Consulate has so far failed to locate him.
Sister-in-law Lisa Greenough told The Olive Press: “Gary simply left Benalmadena without a word to anyone.
And apart from a single telephone call, telling us he’d moved to Nerja – we’ve heard nothing.”
Fears over his welfare increased over Christmas, when he failed to get in touch with his children Harry, 24 and Victoria, 25.
Attempts to call his mobile failed, with the number now ‘unobtainable’.
“They are heartbroken and desperate to hear from their dad,” Greenough added.
“And Gary’s mother is sick with worry. We’re praying that Olive Press readers can help find some answers.”
Butcher, who arrived in Benalmadena as a self-employed builder a decade ago, has no known enemies and has never gone missing before. He is however, prone to suffering depression.
Reports show that there are currently 11,936 people registered as missing in Spain.
John Barnes, Missing Person Manager, at Greater Manchester Police said: “While the majority return, there is always a small percentage who remain missing – despite our best efforts.
“When the location of these loved ones is completely unknown, this is especially hard.”
Anyone with information should contact PC Paul Wilkinson at 00447795 507046.
Please also email the Olive Press at jon@theolivepress.es
??? if that is him in the picture…. he is possibly having a ball somewhere…!!! just popping out for a pack of fags…??? a Reg Perring..??