Police Appeal As Bristol's DJ Derek Reported Missing

Police Appeal As Bristol's DJ Derek Reported Missing
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A well-known local disc jockey has been reported missing, having not been seen by his family for three weeks.

Police are appealing for information on the whereabouts of 73-year-old Derek Morris - aka DJ Derek.

Mr Morris, who lives in the St Paul's area of Bristol, is well known in the city for his music sets and has played hundreds of gigs over the years, including alongside some high-profile artists.

His niece, Jennifer, has used Facebook and Twitter to appeal to the public for sightings.

She said: "Has anyone seen Derek in the last three weeks? This is urgent, please let us know. Police are now informed and he is being treated as a missing person."

Bristol Mayor George Ferguson tweeted: "I'm very sorry to hear this #DJDerek is a legend - I'll do all I can to spread word across #Bristol."

DJ Derek has been a resident of St Paul's since 1978. He was formerly an accountant for Cadbury and became a DJ by accident in his mid-30s.

Since then he has played sets at the Glastonbury festival and has worked with the likes of Massive Attack.

He is known for playing a blend of '60s rocksteady, reggae, ska, dancehall and soul music.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: "He was reported missing to us last night by his family.

"Anyone who has any information about his disappearance should call us on 101."

Mr Morris's disappearance has sparked appeals on social media from many people, including top DJ Rob da Bank.

A police spokesman said: "Derek is well known in the Bristol community having been a DJ at local bars and clubs for several years.

"He is described as a white male, average height and slim build with grey hair. He also wears glasses.

"If you have any information regarding Derek's whereabouts, please contact us now on 101 quoting reference MP 3388/15."