Search for Briton missing in the Cayman Islands halted

The search for a British man who went missing in the Cayman Islands more than two weeks ago has been called off.

Nathan Clarke, 30, from Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, was last seen on February 25 on Grand Cayman.

The Royal Cayman Islands Police Service said that only Mr Clarke's phone, which was recovered at sea, has been found since he went missing.

Chief Inspector Richard Barrow, who was leading the inquiry, said: "We have completely exhausted the search areas at land and at sea, but unfortunately we have not been able to find Nathan."

Police said that although the land and sea searches have been called off, investigations into his disappearance were still "very active".

Hundreds of volunteers worked alongside police officers in the hunt for Mr Clarke - with more than 500 helping on one day.

Mr Clarke, who was working on the Caribbean holiday island as a teaching assistant, was last seen walking towards the water's edge near Calico Jack's beach bar on West Bay Road on the Caribbean island wearing swimming shorts.

Mr Barrow said: "I would like to thank all of the volunteers who came out day after day and tirelessly assisted our officers during the searches.

"I know that Nathan's parents, his brother and sister, his fiancee Lisa and her parents are also very grateful to all those who have helped and shown support during this difficult time.

"Although the land and sea searches have been called off, officers stress that the investigation into what happened to Nathan is still very active and appeal for people on the island to remain vigilant and to report immediately any information that may assist police with their inquiries.

"The families will continue to be kept fully informed of progress."

PA