Woman's plea over devoted father who vanished

A woman today made an emotional appeal after her partner of seven years went missing on his way to work.

Police are baffled by the disappearance of Simon Prior, 44, last week. He recently became a father and works as a technician for major live concerts and events.

Alison Turner said he is a wonderful father to their three-month son Joe and his disappearance from their home in Catford is a "complete mystery". She added: "The last time I saw him he was acting the same as always and just left for work saying he would see me that afternoon. But he did not return.

"I am beside myself with fear and concern. This is nothing like Simon.

It is so out of character." Mr Prior was due to attend a meeting with a City client at 10am. He phoned a colleague the day before to say he might be late because he had to see a jeweller to make a payment.

Police since discovered files on his home computer that show he had arranged a meeting with a man called Andy at 9.30am on the day he went missing and had withdrawn £2,500 cash from his bank two days earlier. Ms Turner said neither she nor any of Mr Prior's friends and colleagues know of an "Andy".

Detective Inspector Kevin Imber said he wanted to hear from Andy and from any jeweller who recognises his photograph.

Police ask anyone with information to call 020 8284 8433, the National Missing Persons helpline on 0808 800 7070 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.