Sister renews appeal 22 years after brother’s disappearance from Brixham

The family of a man who disappeared after leaving his mum's home in Brixham 22 years ago are renewing their appeal to help find him.

Neil Nortrop – also known as Neil McGarthland – was 32 when he disappeared. His sister,  Alex McGarthland, is now appealing for any information on her brother’s whereabouts. She is taking over from her mother, Pam McGarthland, who tragically passed away last year, without finding any answers. 

Neil disappeared from London on June 10, 2003. Originally from South Devon, he travelled to Greenwich and Dartford to visit friends. He left his mother’s home in Brixham that day, and she last heard from him in a phone call the following day. There has been no trace of him since. 

The impact of her son’s disappearance on Pam was incredibly difficult. Speaking to the News Shopper in 2010, Pam revealed that she became ‘increasingly reclusive but couldn’t bring herself to move house in case one day Neil returned.’  

Pam remained hopeful that her son would be found but tragically passed away in 2024 without knowing what happened to him.  Since then, Neil’s sister, Alex, is leading family efforts in the search for her brother and resolves to “carry on her legacy”. 

To mark Neil’s birthday, his family have shared this statement: “We are searching for answers as to what happened to him so we can have closure, if not for my parents as both deceased, but for us as a family as it is difficult to move on without any answers. It is now 22 years on, and it seems like yesterday. We are appealing to those who may have some answers to come forward.” 

At the time of his disappearance, Neil was described as 5’11”, with a muscular build, cropped fair hair, blue eyes and diamond studs in his teeth. He has several tattoos, and a scar under his left eye. He was last seen driving a blue Ford Mondeo, registration W568XBD. 

The public can also support the search by visiting  Neil’s appeal on the Missing People website. There, they can report sightings, download posters, and share his story widely on social media and in public spaces. 

Missing People’s Publicity Officer, Ndella Senghore, said: "Neil, if you are reading this, please get in touch. You can call us on 116 000 or email 116000@missingpeople.org.uk. Our service is non-judgemental, confidential, and free. We just want to provide you with the support you need and help you to be safe. 

“Our helpline is here to support people who are missing, thinking of going missing, and for loved ones who are left behind. The helpline is free and confidential and is operated by specialist staff and volunteers. "

“Sightings and information about any missing person can also be given anonymously through the Missing People website."