Parents of missing teenager in Barnstaple thank community for support in search efforts

The parents of missing Barnstaple teenager Taylor Charlton have expressed gratitude to the community for its support during their ongoing search efforts as they mark his 15th birthday.

Taylor went missing on the evening of 8th May, with a large-scale investigation currently underway to determine the circumstances of his disappearance.

Zoe and Alex Charlton, Taylor's parents, shared their appreciation in a statement: "Today is Taylor's 15th birthday. As Taylor's Mum and Dad, we would like to thank everyone locally and further afield for sharing posts across social media in the search for Taylor. The amount of support shown from the community has been incredible and truly appreciated by all involved. Hundreds of people are continuing to look for him, and we cannot thank everyone enough for the time, effort and support they have given so far."

They encouraged further participation in the search: "If anyone would like to get involved in the search, please join the Facebook page and take part in one of the organised local searches. Every extra pair of eyes could make a difference. Please continue sharing posts, staying vigilant and supporting the ongoing search efforts. We just want our son home."

Latest Developments in Investigation

The last-confirmed sighting of Taylor was at the Tesco Extra car park in Station Road around 10.30pm on 8th May.

He was seen heading towards the River Taw, and investigators suspect he may have entered the water.

Taylor was reported missing at approximately 5.15pm on 9th May.

Police have conducted extensive enquiries, including reviewing significant amounts of CCTV footage and employing a helicopter to assist in searches along the River Taw.

Superintendent Emma Butler-Jones, Local Commander for the area, commented: "Taylor, his family and friends are very much in our thoughts, particularly on his birthday today. We remain dedicated to finding answers for Taylor’s loved-ones and a substantial investigation is ongoing. Extensive enquiries continue to be carried out by detectives and any new information that comes to light will be carefully assessed. We are extremely grateful for the significant public response to our appeal so far, and we still urge anyone with information to contact us. If you are out searching, please keep yourselves safe."

If you have urgent information about Taylor's disappearance, please phone 999. For non-urgent matters, contact 101 and quote reference number 50260117084.

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