Police have confirmed a sighting of missing DJ Derek at a bus station on the outskirts of Bristol.

The 73-year-old, who was reported missing on July 23, was seen by friends at Yate bus station on either July 16 or 17 at around midday. Police have also had sightings at Cribbs Causeway and Thornbury and officers are looking into potential links with bus routes in these areas.

Detective Inspector Chris Jay said: “Since Derek was reported missing on Thursday 23 July, we’ve conducted a thorough and widespread search investigation. This has involved detailed CCTV examinations, house to house enquiries and physical searches. We have also had a large number of reported sightings following our public appeal and we are working through all of these.

“This new confirmed sighting in Yate will mean we will re-focus our efforts in this area and I would ask anyone who was in the vicinity of Yate bus station on July 16/17 to come forward. I would also ask anyone who regularly uses public transport within Yate, Cribbs Causeway or Thornbury to come forward if they have any information.

“Any information, no matter how small or insignificant you may think it is, might prove crucial to this investigation. Please contact us now on 101 quoting reference number MP3388/15.”

Derek, whose full name is Derek Serpell-Morris, is described as of average height and slim build with grey hair and glasses. He was last seen wearing a brown jacket, brown waistcoat and a black shirt.

The well-known DJ has played hundreds of gigs in Bristol over the years, spinning rocksteady, reggae, ska and dancehall. He announced his retirement in 2013, playing his final show at Notting Hill Arts Club. [via Western Daily Press]