Family search for backpacker son

Mr Koch has not been seen since he left his travelling companion

The parents of a 24-year-old who failed to return from a backpacking holiday in Nepal have pleaded for the help of any travellers who may have seen him.

Gareth Koch, of Hamfield in Wantage, Oxfordshire, set off for Nepal with a friend on 21 February.

The two went their separate ways in Sagarmatha National Park on 5 March and Mr Koch's friend returned home without him on 15 March.

Mr Koch's parents last heard from him when he first arrived in Kathmandu.

His father, David, said: "Gareth is an experienced and frequent traveller.

"It has now been seven weeks since we have heard from our son and we are getting very worried about what could have happened to him.

It is totally out of character for him not to contact his family Acting Detective Inspector Geoff Webb

"I appeal to anyone who has been on holiday in Nepal who remembers seeing him.

"If you know Gareth and he has been in contact with you since 21 February please contact the police."

Mr Koch and his travelling companion had intended to spend just one month in Nepal, returning to England on 20 March.

Thames Valley Police are currently liaising with police in Nepal and the British Embassy.

Acting Detective Inspector Geoff Webb, of Didcot CID, said: "He was in full-time employment before he left and comes from a happy and stable home.

"It is totally out of character for him not to contact his family."