THE wife of missing Nicholas Harper has made a heartfelt appeal for information about his disappearance.

Rachael Harper, described Nicholas as “a much-loved husband and father”.

Appealing directly to the public for information about her husband’s whereabouts, she said: “The boys and I, and all of Nick’s family and friends, miss him desperately.

“I would ask anyone who thinks they have any information that might help us to find Nick, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, to please contact the police.”

Student teacher Nicholas, 50, who lives in Pickering, had been working on a placement in the science department of Archbishop Holgate CE School in York since last September.

The school said in a parents’ newsletter: “Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time and we continue to pray for his safe return.” It added that support was available for anyone affected.

Police have renewed their appeal for information and any sightings of Nicholas, who was last seen on Thursday, February 7.

In particular, officers are keen to trace the owner of a silver estate car which was seen parked in the same area where Nicholas’ car was located. It is believed this car was parked on the morning Nicholas went missing and also for a couple of mornings beforehand and it may be that the driver has seen or heard something which may assist with the investigation.

On the morning of February 7, Nicholas left his home address in Pickering and was believed to have been heading to work, but did not arrive.

His car was later found at Cowhouse Wood, Helmsley, and searches of the vicinity and the wider area have taken place due to Nicholas being a keen long distance fell runner.

Nicholas is described as a white man, around 5ft 5ins tall, of stocky build with short dark brown hair and a full beard. He was last seen wearing a three piece suit and shirt.

Information about Nicholas has also been circulated to other forces, including West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, Humberside, Durham and Cleveland.

Anyone who thinks they might have seen Nicholas, or who has any information which could assist the investigation, is asked to phone police on 101.

Please quote reference number 12190023491 when passing on any information.