POLICE have revealed a soap fan who failed to return to his Blackburn home four years ago has disappeared without a trace.

David Adams went missing when he travelled to Liverpool, the home of his favourite TV programme Brookside, on June 2, 1996.

David was 27 at the time and was living in Kelsall Avenue, Whitebirk. He was a big fan of the soap and liked to visit Liverpool where it is made.

Detectives say David's file is still open and they are appealing for anyone who might know of his whereabouts to contact them. They are concerned about David because in most cases the missing person is eventually traced.

David also has a history of mental problems and was thought to be suffering from depression when he travelled to Liverpool. He had also threatened to commit suicide on several occasions.

Detective Constable Phil Dawson has been liaising with Merseyside police on the case. He said: "There have been absolutely no sightings of David whatsoever in the last four years. He simply left home to catch a train to Liverpool and has never been seen since.

"We realise it is a long time ago but hopefully someone might remember something which could lead us to David.

"As in all missing persons cases this case is not close and it never will be. We are still keen on tracking down David if only for the sake of his close family who still worry about him every day."

David is white, 5ft 6in, slim and has light brown collar length hair, blue eyes and a full beard and moustache and has scars on both arms.

Anyone who knows of David's whereabouts should contact DC Phil Dawson on 01254 51212.