The search for an Essex man who went missing three months ago has been stepped up after a national advertising deal was secured to widen the scope of the investigation and engage with more people.

Chris May, 28, of Kelvedon, was last seen at his father’s home in Coggeshall on the morning of Monday, May 25, the day before Chris was due to start a new job with a friend to build tennis courts.

His silver Volkswagen Golf was found abandoned in Troy’s Chase, Fairstead later that morning.

Yesterday, national advertising went on digital boards across the country and an advert in the Big Issue were launched after funding was secured by Missing People.

In June, Essex police launched an appeal for the author of an anonymous letter, delivered via Royal Mail to Witham police station on June 1, to come forward. The letter stated Mr May had been the victim of an assault which had led to his death.

Police had previously appealed to ‘geocachers’ who may have more information to come forward.

DCI Marina Ericson of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate and the lead officer on the investigation said: “I am really grateful for all the assistance Missing People have given to us. This national advertising will mean we can reach a wider audience for information about Chris’ whereabouts.

“There will be someone out there who knows something but for whatever reason has not come forward so far.

“To date [the author] has not made contact. I would like to appeal to them to make contact with me directly either by phone on 101 or alternatively send me an email to marina.ericson@essex.pnn.police.uk”.

A Missing People spokesperson said: “Chris, we are here for you whenever you are ready. We can listen, talk you through what help you need, pass a message for you and help you to be safe. Call. Text. Anytime. Free. Confidential. 116000.”

To date extensive enquiries have so far been unable to establish what happened to Chris after his car was left in Fairstead.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the investigation team on 101, email scdappeals@essex.pnn.police.uk or contact Missing People by calling its 24-hour helpline on 116 000.

Missing People can pass on messages to families on the missing person’s behalf or set up a three-way call.

To make a £3 donation to Missing People, text HOPE to 70707.