POLICE have stood down on an extensive land search as part of an investigation into the disappearance of a Bebington man more than 20 years ago.

Steven Preston lived with his mum in Heath Road, Bebington when he was reported missing on September 23, 1992.

New information received by Merseyside Police claimed that Steven may have been killed and buried on land in Eastham.

In a previously released statement superintendent Ian Hassall said: "Steven was last seen by his mum, Isobel, he waved from his bedroom window to her when she left for work at 8.45am.

"Isobel said there had been no arguments and Steven had left home without his jacket or prescription for medication he was on.

"Steven was reported as missing to the police and his mum was also in contact with Missing Persons organisation (which is now known as Missing People).

"Inquiries were made by officers at the time, but Steven was never found".

Wirral Globe:

The land search for Steven Preston, who disappeared in 1992. Picture: Paul Heaps

Detectives are appealing to anyone who may have known Steven and has information which could help them with their investigation to contact them.

Superintendent Hassall added: "Sadly Steven's mother Isobel and half-brother Michael Connolly have died since his disappearance, never knowing what had happened to him.

"I would appeal to anyone who has any information about Steven's disappearance to contact us. Information they have could be vital.

"The question still remains, where is Steven Preston?

"A young man in 20s doesn't just leave home and vanish into thin air.

"Somebody, somewhere must know where he is, or what happened to him, and I would urge them to contact us as soon as possible".

Anyone with information about Mr Preston should contact Merseyside Police on 0151 777 8663 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.