The former wife of missing Hitchin man Leonard Scott has made a heartfelt appeal for more information to help police trace him.

Leonard, who went missing in riverside Great Barford 25 miles from his home on New Year’s Day, was married to Eileen Scott for 35 years before they separated in early 2013.

She said this morning: “Although Leonard and I separated, I have never stopped caring for him and there has never been anyone else in my life.

“We had some wonderful times together, travelling the world and enjoying our shared passions for the outdoors, theatre and art. I’m desperate to know that he is safe and that’s why I’m appealing for help.

“Although Leonard was living in Hitchin when he disappeared, he had spent the majority of his life in Bedfordshire. I’m urging people to cast their minds back to the end of December to see if they can remember seeing him.

“He went missing in Great Barford so there is a real possibility that someone in Bedfordshire has seen him recently and may know something that could help us find him.

“This is a very sad situation and a difficult time for those of us who know and care for Leonard. He spent Christmas with his family, and although he did have some emotional issues, his disappearance is completely out of character and unexpected.”

Leonard, 64, is described by Mrs Scott as being incredibly funny with a great sense of humour. He could also be caring, and used to work with adults with learning disabilities, sharing his passion for music with them.

His car, a red Nissan Juke, was found abandoned at the Anchor Inn in Great Barford on January 1. He’s not believed to have any money or phone with him, and despite carrying out extensive investigations police have been unable to find him.

In a direct appeal to the missing man, Eileen said: “No matter how you’re feeling, however alone you may think you are, please know that your family, your friends, and me, love and care for you very much and want to see you safe and well.”

Anyone with information can call police on 101.