Crimestoppers is offering up to £20,000 as a reward as part of the investigation into the disappearance of a Warwick man last seen over a year ago

The search for Stefan Watkins - also known as ‘Lee’ or ‘Lee Lee’ - is now being treated as a murder investigation.

Mr Watkins was last seen on Saturday, 6 May 2023 when he left his home.

He is described as white, around 6ft tall, with blue eyes and very short hair.

A 45-year-old woman was last week arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder in connection with his disappearance. She has been bailed pending further enquiries.

"Our charity, which is independent of the police, is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information that leads to the conviction of anyone involved in Stefan’s murder," Crimestoppers said.

"The reward is also available for information leading to the recovery of Stefan’s body."

There has been no confirmed proof of life since CCTV footage showed Stefan leaving his Warwick home, which was the same day as The King’s Coronation.

It is believed that Stefan travelled to Coventry in the early hours of Sunday, 7 May last year.

Alan Edwards, Crimestoppers West Midlands regional manager said: "We truly hope that Stefan is alive and well.

"However, we know that it’s very possible he may have come to harm. This is why Crimestoppers is supporting this murder investigation by putting up a reward and reminding people of our unique service.

“We know that for some people it can be difficult to speak directly to the authorities. Our charity, which is independent of the police, is here to help.

"We guarantee your complete anonymity. We never ask for your personal details, just what you know about crime. This means no police contact, no witness statement and no courts.

“Nobody will ever know that you contacted us. Call us anytime on 0800 555 111 or complete our online form anonymously.

"People have been trusting us with their information since we first started over 35 years ago. Any piece of information, no matter how small, could prove crucial in getting answers for Stefan’s loved ones.”