A GWENT dad last night made an emotional appeal for his "gentle, loving" son to return home.

Concern is growing for Mark William Shaw, from Raglan, who was last seen on Tuesday after leaving a note for his parents.

The 26-year-old's black Ford Ka was found abandoned near a Pembrokeshire beach in the early hours of yesterday.

His father, Christopher Shaw, told the Argus he and his wife last saw their son on Monday morning, before they set off for a function in London. Mr Shaw said Mark's behaviour had been "normal" and the disappearance was "totally out of character".

He said: "He is a gentle, loving son. Very, very caring. He has never done anything like this before."

Mark had been living with his parents for the past two years recovering from a severe viral illness.

Mr Shaw said: "Like any young lad of 26 who is out of circulation, he had his frustrations, but something must have tipped that frustration. "This may be a cry for help, and I want him to know that everyone is here to help."

The former Monmouthshire Comprehensive pupil is believed to have left his parents' home sometime between 9am and late afternoon on Tuesday with around £100 in cash.

His car was later found in the White Sands area of St David's - an area his family had previously visited on holidays.

Mr Shaw said: "All we want is to find him safe. We hope and pray for it." Mr Shaw and Gwent police are now appealing for anyone with information about Mark's disappearance to get in touch. Sergeant Mike Grey of Monmouth division said the force was in constant contact with their colleagues in Pembrokeshire.

He said: "The police in St David's have searched possible places where he may have gone, using police dog handlers, RAF helicopters, lifeboats and mountain rescue teams.

"So far there has not been one sighting. But we hope information will come forward which will lead to successfully finding Mark."

Mark is described as "distinctive", white, 6'1" tall, slim and with short wavy red hair. He is clean-shaven, has brown eyes and wears small round black-rimmed glasses.

At the time of his disappearance he was wearing a black fleece, grey corduroy trousers and navy canvas shoes.

Anyone with information should contact Gwent Police on 01633 838111.