An Ilkley postmaster has disappeared without trace, prompting a nationwide hunt by police.

David Todd, 51, has not been seen at the Leeds Road Post Office since 8.15am last Friday.

His wife Sylvia has told officers her husband went downstairs to open up as normal, but nothing has been seen or heard from him since.

In an emotional plea, Mrs Todd said: "I will say the same to you as I have said to everyone I have contacted about David. I need him, I miss him and I want him home."

On the day of the disappearance Mrs Todd went downstairs some time after 8.15am but found the post office was still shut up.

Inspector Paul Clynch, of Ilkley Police, said: "We have been told that this is totally out of character for Mr Todd.

"We do not know what has happened to him and we are urging him, or anyone with information about his disappearance to contact us immediately," he said.

Insp Clynch said officers had made lengthy inquiries but so far there had been no confirmed sightings of Mr Todd or the white Ford Orion police believe he drove away in. The registration is F167 CUM.

"Clearly his wife is very anxious about this. The chances are he is safe and well and hopefully the publicity will lead to him making contact," said Insp Clynch.

He said Mr Todd had been under stress at work but he was a very community-minded man with strong church connections, and was in the process of training to become a lay preacher.

Mr Todd is described as white, about five feet 11inch tall, of very large build, with greying, short hair and blue/grey eyes.

He was smartly dressed at the time of his disappearance.

Anyone with information about Mr Todd's disappearance is asked to contact Ilkley Police on 01535 617059.

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