The family of a missing pensioner have written a heartfelt open letter pleading for him to come back.

It has been a month since missing grandfather Gordon Wilson, 82, went missing from his home in Leaden Roding on Sunday, October 25.

His bus pass is confirmed as being used to board the number 352 First Bus service at Chelmsford Bus Station at 12.30pm that day.

It finished its route in Halstead and the driver believes a man fitting Mr Wilson’s description got off at the final stop at 1.30pm and walked in the direction of Butler Road.

His daughters Lesley Rankin and Gillian Wilson appealed for him to come back in time for Christmas.

He has vascular dementia and his ill health means he can become confused and have difficulty speaking.

The letter reads: “Dear Dad, this is just a quick note to let you know how desperate we are to hear from you.

“The past four weeks have been a nightmare.

“We are all beside ourselves with worry, especially your three devoted grandchildren for whom you have done so much over the years.

“Every day they are reminding us of the good times we have had together.

“We have been searching tirelessly for you and we will continue to do so until you are found as we know you would never give up on us.

“We have a place ready for you at the Christmas table.

“It will make it the best Christmas ever if you would please come home.

“Love from your two daughters.”

Braintree district commander Chief Inspector Richard Melton said: "It is now a month since he went missing and as time goes on, we are clearly growing more concerned for him.

"We are continuing our searches in the Sible Hedingham area, where he was last seen, and I would ask residents to remain vigilant and contact us with any information.”

Police are still appealing for two motorcyclists who helped a man, believed to be Mr Wilson, who fell over in Halstead Road, Sible Hedingham, sometime between 2pm and 4pm on the day he went missing.

Mr Wilson, who has a Scottish accent, is described as 5ft 11in tall and of medium build with grey thinning hair. He wears glasses and was last seen wearing a sports jacket which is either checked or navy.

He usually wears a shirt, tie and jumper.

Anyone who sees him is asked to call 101 urgently.