Major Search Continues for Vulnerable Teenager
A large-scale police operation is now in its eighth day as the search for a missing 19-year-old student from Wigan intensifies. Tom Dingle was last seen in the early hours of Saturday, 13th December, and authorities have released crucial CCTV footage showing his final known movements.
Heartbreaking Plea from a Worried Family
Tom's family have issued an emotional public appeal, desperate for his safe return. His mother, Sue, told the Manchester Evening News that Tom is in a vulnerable state of mind following a traumatic event and is grieving deeply. "We just want him home as soon as possible," she said. "We've even put a note on the front door so he knows he can just walk in."
She emphasised that Tom is not in any trouble and that the family's sole concern is his safety and wellbeing. "We're just here to love and protect him, that's all. It's cold and wet out at night. We don't know if he's seeking shelter anywhere," Sue added, describing the family as "going out of our minds with worry."
Critical CCTV Clues and Public Appeal
The newly released footage from Lancashire Police traces Tom's route in Appley Bridge, West Lancashire. He was first captured on camera leaving Stonemill Rise at 12.30am. A second clip shows him walking along Appley Lane North at 12.40am, which is his last confirmed location.
Tom is described as 5ft 10ins tall with short black hair. He was last seen wearing a black Carhartt jacket, black jeans, black Doc Marten shoes, and was carrying a backpack.
Police are making a specific request for public assistance. A spokesperson stated: "What we really need from the public is dashcam footage from the area between 12.30am and 3am on December 13." They are particularly interested in footage covering Mill Lane at the junction with Appley Lane North and Appley Lane North from the Bridge Inn up to Hall Lane.
The search effort has involved specialist officers, police dogs, a drone team, and mountain rescue colleagues. Behind the scenes, officers are reviewing hours of CCTV and speaking to Tom's friends and family. Tom has links to Appley Bridge, Lancaster, and Wigan.
Anyone who sees Tom is urged to call 999 immediately. Anyone with information or relevant footage should call 101, quoting log number 0120 of December 13.
