THE parents of a man who disappeared seven years ago have wished him a happy 35th birthday and begged him to get in touch.
Anthony Stammers went missing from his home in Mile End Road, Colchester, on May 27, 2012.
His family and friends, including parents Julie and Rob, have searched relentlessly for him but without luck.
Today is his 35th birthday. Julie posted a message on the Anthony Stammers is Missing Facebook page.
She said: “December 18 is Ant’s 35th birthday. Our beautiful son, brother and friend who is missed so much every minute of every day.
“Thank you for your support, please continue to share Anthony’s appeal posts far and wide, please light a candle so all those lights will shine so brightly they will light Ant’s way home.
“Happy birthday Ant. I hope you are safe and with kind people.
“If you can see this message please find a way to get in touch and let us know you are OK. We all miss you so very much.”
It is on poignant days like his birthday his family feel his loss more acutely.
Julie said: “We try and stay at home on his birthday which seems a bit strange but your thoughts are ‘Maybe he will come back today, maybe he will knock on that door’.
“Everyone has been really kind. We think about Anthony on his birthday and we always get him a card and present.”
Christmas is also a difficult time of year but Anthony’s friends continue to show their support.
The Pogues singer Shane MacGowan posted an appeal video for Anthony which is shared every year.
Anthony is a huge fan of the singer. Julie said: “He used to tell all his friends Shane was a legend and he has proved to be just that.”
Julie said Christmas feels hollow without Anthony. She said: “When Ant was born I was unwell which meant a week in hospital so we came home on Christmas morning. His siblings say Ant was the best Christmas present they ever had.
“Christmas is very poignant for us and as Ant has heard the story so many times we hope he will return to us again one Christmas morning.”
Julie thanked everyone who has supported the appeal this year.
To report a sighting call or text 116 000.
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