Family and friends have joined the search for missing Chippenham man Richard Maher, who has not been seen since Wednesday night.

The 44-year-old had been out with friends in the town during the evening and was last seen leaving The Brunel pub at about 10.30pm.

CCTV shows Mr Maher walking on his own past the taxi rank, towards the town centre.

It is believed he would have taken the footpath alongside the river to walk back to his home in Wentworth Close.

Mr Maher is described as white, 5ft10ins and of slim build with dark/greying hair. He was last seen wearing jeans, a black hooded top underneath a green jacket and black magnum boots. He also has tattoos.

Wiltshire Police have been carrying out inquiries since Mr Maher was reported missing.

The force helicopter and search teams are working in the areas around where he was last seen and checks have also been made with local taxi firms and hospitals in the region, but all have so far proved negative.

Officers say Mr Maher's phone appears to be switched off but its signal has shown that it is still in the Chippenham area.

Inspector Looey Law said: "This is very out of character for Richard and both we and his family are very concerned for his safety at this time.

"A number of inquiries have already taken place and are continuing today.

"At this time I would appeal to anyone who has any information about Richard’s whereabouts to contact the police immediately.

"I’d also ask people in the town to check their gardens and sheds in case Richard may have taken refuge there overnight.

"I am also appealing directly to Richard himself to get in touch. If you don't want people to know where you are we will respect that but we do need to know you are safe."

Anyone with any information is asked to call Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.