MISSING Valleys man Kyle Vaughan still has a job to come home to, as Unilever, who own the Pot Noodle factory where he works say they have "no intention" of ending his employment.

Kyle went missing on December 30 last year, with police later opening a murder investigation.

His parents Alan and Mary, from Newbridge, were worried that he might lose his job as it has now been more than seven months since he last went to work.

But a spokeswoman for Unilever said: "Kyle is still employed by Unilever and there is no intention of ending his employment until there is further clarity on his situation from Kyle, his family or the police.

"Like everyone, we still hope for Kyle's safe return home and offer our full support to Kyle's family and to Gwent Police in their ongoing investigations."

In an emotional appeal last Saturday, Kyle’s 25th birthday, parents Alan and Mary asked anyone with information to come forward and end the "hell" of their uncertainty.

They described their son as full of life, a joker and popular with everyone.

Mr Vaughan said: "He could see the funny side of everyone and he would help anyone."

Kyle had gone out wearing a Santa’s outfit on Christmas Eve in 2011, but fell asleep in the pub. When he woke up he rushed back home, and arrived still dressed as Father Christmas, telling his parents, "I’ve lost Rudolph!"

His mother described him as a peacemaker who would try to break up fights, adding: "Kyle would never hurt anybody."

His parents said they are incredibly proud of Kyle, who loved music and played the guitar, drums, organ and xylophone. He was Grade 8 standard on the drums and did the lighting at school concerts.

Detective Superintendent Peter Jones, Senior Investigating Officer, said: "My focus remains on the need to help the family understand how and why Kyle disappeared."

Crimestoppers have offered a £5,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest and conviction. Information can be given and the reward claimed totally anonymously.