A COASTGUARD helicopter searched for a missing man after his car was found abandoned near Beachy Head.

Sussex Police say they are very concerned for the safety of 64-year-old Worthing resident William Parsons.

His blue Nissan Micra was seen parked up at about 6.30pm near Beachy Head, and had not moved by 9.35pm.

Police were alerted by a member of the Beachy Head Chaplaincy Team, who seek to save lives in the area using search, rescue and crisis intervention.

Searches took place overnight and a HM Coastguard helicopter swept the area on Wednesday morning, but there were no sightings by midday.

Police now believe he is in the Eastbourne area.

Anyone who sees him or knows of his whereabouts is asked to dial 999 immediately quoting serial 1355 of 22/01.