Hunt launched after Rotherham man vanishes at Cheltenham festival

Philip Lucas went to the racecourse with friends who last saw him at about 5.50pm.

He is supposed to be staying at Cranham, near Gloucester, but did not turn up there last night.

Police who have issued an appeal for information on his whereabouts say he is Mr is white, about 5ft 6ins tall, with white/grey hair.

When last seen, he was wearing a blue coat and a hat. He walks with a limp after a knee operation.

“Police received a possible sighting of Philip at the Kings Arms in Prestbury at approximately at 11.15pm but there has been no confirmed information about his whereabouts,” said a police spokesman.

“Officers are concerned for Mr Lucas’ welfare and are asking him, or anyone who sees him, to call Gloucestershire Police by dialling 101.”