A TV detective, who is looking into the disappearance of Oswaldtwistle teenager Jay Slater, has been speaking with his family after a devastating update from Spanish police.

It has been reported that the Guardia Civil has called off the search for Jay, although they say the case remains open.

Mark Williams-Thomas, a former police officer, has suggested that the family use money from the GoFundMe to continue searching.

At the time of writing, the GoFundMe has reached more than £44,000.

Mark, who is best known for 'exposing' Jimmy Savile after his death, said he has been able to speak with “important witnesses” as part of the investigation.

He said: “Although the police search in the mountains and around Masca has concluded, the police investigation into Jay Slater’s disappearance remains ongoing.

“In regard to our investigation, we have been able to speak to important witnesses and now have a very detailed picture of Jays' movements over June 16 and 17 along with important background information.

“We still have a number of outstanding actions but have given the family a preliminary breakdown of findings."

Mark suggested the family hire search experts with the money fundraised.

He said: "In light of the police search ending, I have suggested the family should use the GoFundMe money to continue the search using experts in searching.

“I would appeal again, if you have any ‘direct information’ having spoken to Jay or anyone that was with him overnight 16/17th and have not yet been in contact please do so.”

Jay had attended the NRG music festival with two friends before his disappearance, and his last known location was the Rural de Teno Park in the north of the Canary Island – which was about an 11-hour walk from his accommodation.

He had reportedly been driven to an Airbnb property in Masca.