Mother appeals for missing Wigan student to return home

The mother of a 19-year-old student from Wigan who has been missing for three days has appealed for her son to return home safely.

Tom Dingle was last seen at around 12.30am on Saturday, December 13, in Stonemill Rise, Appley Bridge. Police believe he was later seen heading towards Appley Lane North shortly afterwards.

Lancashire Police said they are “really worried” for his safety and have launched a major search operation involving helicopters, drones and mountain rescue teams.

His mother, Susan Dingle, told the BBC the family was particularly concerned because Tom had been in a vulnerable state of mind following a recent bereavement.

“We just want him home safe,” she said. “We’re not angry in any way — we just love him and want him back.”

Tom, a Lancaster University student, is described as 5ft 11ins tall with short black hair. He was last seen wearing a black Vans hoodie, black jeans and black Doc Marten shoes.

Anyone who sees Tom is urged to call 999 immediately. Anyone with information, or CCTV or dashcam footage from the area, should contact police on 101 quoting log 0120 of December 13.