Ron Burton, 55, got off a No 1 bus outside Safeway, in Brighton, to do some shopping while his wife Brenda continued her journey to the Gala Bingo Club.

He said "See you back home". But that was on February 8 and nobody has seen him since.

Police are now concerned about his disappearance, which they say is a complete mystery.

After getting off the bus, former long distance lorry driver Ron went back to the couple's flat in York Road, Hove, and took all his belongings, including photographs.

He even took the red Universal bike he bought his stepson, Christopher, 14, for Christmas.

Police forces throughout the country have been circulated with his description but so far there have been no sightings.

Ron, who is 6ft 4in, has not phoned his wife or been in touch with any of his relatives and he has not used his bank or building society accounts.

A police spokesman said: "We are very concerned. It is a complete mystery. He just seems to have suddenly got off the bus and disappeared."

Brenda, 43, said: "There was no indication anything was wrong with our relationship. He took an interest in Christopher's education. All the bills were being paid and he seemed quite happy.

"It has come as a complete bombshell.

"If there had been an argument, money problems or problems with our relationship, I could understand it."

Ron is slim and slightly balding. He was last seen wearing a blue and grey anorak, blue jeans and white trainers and a watch on his left wrist.

Anyone with information should contact Sussex Police on 01273 606744.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.