FRIENDS and family of a Skipton man are facing an anguished wait for his return after he went missing on a night out in York on Friday.

Police have been searching without success for 29-year-old Rory Johnson-Hatfield after he left the York Central Travelodge hotel just after midnight.

North Yorkshire Police's underwater search team has been scouring the swollen River Ouse in the city and is expected to resume its search today.

Rory worked at Brody's Pizzeria in Sheep Street, Skipton.

His father, Douglas Hatfield, has appealed for the public's help in tracing his son.

He said: "Rory loved York – that is why he went there for a night out.

"The police have been fabulous, but I would just ask anyone who has any information to get in touch with them as they try to find Rory."

Friends and colleagues at Brody's are also waiting anxiously for his return, said co-owner Jane Hurst.

She told the Herald: "Rory is a really super man and well-loved by us all. He is extremely good with the customers and they really like him – in many ways, he is Brody's.

"He was due to start work at 10am on Saturday and we were very concerned when he didn't arrive.

"Obviously, we are still very hopeful he will turn up safe and well."

His friends at Brody's have posted a message on the restaurant's Facebook page, which reads: "Rory Johnson. Our well-loved waiter is missing. Hoping for his speedy return. You are much missed my love. And in our thoughts. It's quiet without you. Xxx. Jane, Dave, Sabine and all the Brody's team."

His friends have also launched a Facebook page called 'Find Rory Johnson' asking for people's help in tracing him.

Police say Rory had been drinking in the Wetherspoon's Postern Gate pub last Thursday evening, where he had met a fellow hotel guest and the guest's father. He went with them to another pub nearby at about 11.30pm. Police have managed to track some of his movements on York's CCTV system.

Rory has lived in Skipton for several years and has had several addresses in the town. He has also lived in Cononley.

Rory's father is a well-known restaurateur in Skipton, where he started the original Brody's in Swadford Street and the former Sam Houston's – later Trader Jack's – restaurant in Water Street. He also kept the Tennants Arms in Kilnsey, as well as establishments in France.

Rory's family are being supported by specialist police officers.

Police are appealing for anyone who recalls seeing Rory, or someone matching his description, in York on Thursday evening or Friday to contact them on 101.