TODAY the family of missing Caldicot man Joel Andrews should be celebrating his birthday, but instead they are anxiously waiting for news.

Mr Andrews, who turns 25 today, went missing on May 22 while at a rave on Dartmoor, Devon. He was last seen at around 12pm that day close to Fernworthy Reservoir near Chagford.

His girlfriend Sara Bannister, 22, said the past month has been a “nightmare”

for herself and Mr Andrews’ family as the investigation into his disappearance continues.

Miss Bannister, who lives in the Forest of Dean, said she last heard from her boyfriend at around 12.30am on Sunday May 22 when he text her to say he had gone to the rave.

She said: “It was a really last-minute thing because he wasn’t supposed to be going and I was supposed to be meeting up with him on the Sunday night. I wondered if he would be back in time. His mum text me on the Monday and I tried getting hold of his friends but no-one knew anything.

"I’ve just been distraught.It’s a nightmare.”

Miss Bannister said she was frustrated at the lack of national news coverage of Mr Andrews’ disappearance as there were people from all over the UK at the rave.

She said: “It just needs to be out there because someone somewhere knows what has happened. I just hope he is safe and want him to come home.”

Mr Andrews’ mother, Tracey Reid, spoke to the Argus last week about her heartache since her son went missing. His absence will be felt even more keenly today, as the family usually celebrate his birthday alongside those of his brother Gareth and sister Carleigh yesterday. Mrs Reid said: “Joel’s birthday has always been a family affair. As you can imagine, that celebration at this time is impossible and all they want for their birthdays is for Joel to come home.

Devon and Cornwall Police have reappealed for information regarding Joel.

Detective Inspector Steve Parker said: “We know that Joel was last seen at a junction of the tracks about 200 metres from the main site, approximately between midday and 1pm on Sunday, 22 May, although the timings may be slightly wrong.

“He was in the area of a white Transit-style van and we are keen to trace the occupants. The van was parked beside a red car and anyone who can assist in identifying the occupants is asked to contact the police.”

Police continue to make searches of the area.

If you have any information contact Devon and Cornwall Police on 08452 777444 quoting reference 421 280511.