## Community Concern Intensifies as Search Continues for Missing Man in Pentre
Anxieties are mounting in Pentre, Rhondda Cynon Taf, as efforts persist to locate missing resident Mark Canning, who has not been seen for three days. The 46-year-old, who is currently reliant on crutches due to his left leg being in plaster, was last spotted late on Wednesday evening, sparking an urgent appeal from family, friends and South Wales Police.
The search began in earnest after Mr Canning was reported missing just after 11.30pm on Wednesday, June 18. Authorities issued a public appeal hoping to trace his whereabouts as fears for his well-being have grown with each passing day. His disappearance has particularly worried locals, given his mobility is severely limited because of his injury.
South Wales Police have described Mr Canning as being approximately 5ft 8ins tall with a slim build. When he was last seen, he was dressed in grey jogging bottoms, a Nike-branded hoodie, a brown jacket, black trainers, and a blue cap. The press statement specifically noted, “His left leg is currently in plaster and he is walking with the aid of crutches.”
The circumstances of his disappearance are especially concerning given his vulnerability. Travelling any significant distance on crutches presents numerous challenges, particularly in rural or uneven areas that periodical local weather conditions could make treacherous. As temperatures fluctuate in the valleys, concerns for his welfare have become urgent.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police made a direct appeal to the community: “We are appealing for the public’s help to find Mark Canning. Any information, no matter how small, could be vital in bringing him home safely.” Officers have been conducting door-to-door inquiries, reviewing CCTV footage in the area, and following up on public leads that have been received since the initial appeal.
The community’s response has highlighted the sense of solidarity in Pentre and surrounding areas, with many local residents sharing Mr Canning’s photo and description on social media in an effort to widen the search. Volunteer groups have also assisted official search teams by looking in places where Mark is known to spend time as well as less frequently visited parts of the town.
Mark’s family are said to be extremely distressed, expressing their gratitude for support but urgently asking anyone who may have seen him, or has information regarding his movements since he left home, to contact the police. “We just want him back safe,” a family member told a local reporter.
Authorities continue to urge those with knowledge of Mr Canning’s whereabouts to contact 101, quoting the reference number 2500193145. Police emphasise that time is of the essence and encourage community members to check sheds, outbuildings, or any potential places of shelter in case Mark sought somewhere to rest.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the impact a missing persons case can have on a close-knit community, particularly when the individual is vulnerable due to health or mobility difficulties. As the search moves into its fourth day, the community and authorities remain hopeful for a positive outcome and the safe return of Mr Canning to his home and loved ones.