Rivers searched in Lewes for missing firefighter Anthony Knott

There is increasing concern for the welfare of Anthony Knott who has not been seen since Friday night when he went out for drinks with colleagues in Lewes.

The 33-year-old dad-of-four had been part of a group of 13 who had visited various pubs in the town, but lost contact with his colleagues as they left The Lamb in Fisher Street at about 7.30pm.

Widespread search efforts have continued today with fire crews and coastguard teams contributing.

Missing persons posters have also been stuck on walls and cash machines around Lewes.

Coastguard have been seen searching in boats in rivers in the town.

An East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "We know lots of you want to help search for our London Fire Brigade colleague Anthony Knott, but please don't put your own safety at risk, especially near the river in Lewes.

"Sussex Police officers are co-ordinating the operation which we are helping with."

A Sussex Police spokesman said: "Anthony is a white male, 5ft 8in tall and of medium build with medium brown short gelled hair.

"He was wearing a black long sleeve top, dark denim coat, dark denim jeans and black smart shoes.

"Anyone who may have seen Anthony or who knows of his whereabouts is asked to contact Sussex Police online or by phoning 101, quoting serial 727 of 21/12.

"If he is ill, injured or thought to be in danger, please dial 999 immediately."

Anthony's disappearance is described as "very out of character" and friends say they are "really worried."

Taking to Facebook, Anthony's devastated fiancee Lucy wrote: "This is very unusual behaviour and he would not stay away intentionally."

She says his phone was last used at about 7.20pm that night and he hasn't used his bank card since.

Lucy adds that Anthony is now considered "high risk."

A heartfelt message on a missing poster reads: "Anthony, we are here for you whenever you are ready.

"We can listen, talk you through what help you need, pass (on) a message for you and help you to be safe."

Another heartbroken family friend wrote on Facebook: "We need to find Anthony.

"His children need their father home, his fiancée needs her soulmate home, his brothers want their brother home, his parents want their son home and we all want him to come home."