A TV detective, who is looking into the disappearance of Oswaldtwistle teenager Jay Slater, has criticised the “fake content” that is circulating.

Mark Williams-Thomas, a former police officer, said he has received an “overwhelming response” from people who want to help.

Mark also highlighted “a number of people making vile threats and ransom demands” adding that these have “no credibility”.

The investigator, who is best known for 'exposing' Jimmy Savile after his death, said: “So much fake content has been created in the Jay Slater case – [including] mocked up chat, messages, pic[tures].

“It’s a very different world we live in today with social media and online detectives.

“[There has been] an overwhelming response from people has been very positive people just wanting to help, even though most have no direct information, just what they have read, seen or think.

“[There are] also a number of people making vile threats and ransom demands (all checked out and have no credibility).

“Being a family and friends at the centre of a massive story like this which has attracted worldwide media / public attention brings with it many more new challenges.”

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

Jay was last heard from on June 17. He had attended the NRG music festival in Tenerife 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.