Police deny ‘arrest’ rumours as hunt goes on for Declan

Declan Edwards (16) was last seen by a friend in Towneley Park at 2pm on Sunday when he said he was returning to his home in Waddington Avenue.

Rumours on social media that arrests have been made were denied by police this morning (Wednesday).

The police helicopter could yesterday be seen circling above the Towneley Park area today, and the police confirmed it was assisting in the search.

Declan’s mum, Mandy Edwards, spoke to the Express to say how her son’s disappearance was out of character.

Mandy along with family, friends and Unity College headteacher Sally Cryer, where Declan goes to school, are currently searching the park.

“It’s just really out of character for him,” said Mandy. “He never stops out and we are just trying to find out exactly what has happened to him.

“We are all really worried and just want him home safe and well.”

Declan is described as white, 6ft. 1in., slim build, with straight short blond hair.

He was last seen wearing a grey Nike sweat shirt, grey Nike jogging bottoms and white and pink Nike trainers. He may also be in possession of a black coloured, lightweight jacket with a yellow coloured Lyle and Scott motif on the front.

Sgt Leah Rice, of Burnley Police, said: “Declan has not been seen for a couple of days and this is out of character for him, we are growing increasingly concerned about him and I would appeal for anyone who sees him or knows where he might be to get in touch.

“I would also appeal to Declan himself to contact us if he sees this appeal just to let us know he is safe.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log number 1416 of May 4th.