Charlotte Newton CONCERN is growing for a 19-year-old backpacker from Muswell Hill who has been missing in Australia for six days. Jamie Neale was last seen on Friday (July 3) when he left his hostel in the state of New South Wales to climb the Blue Mount

Charlotte Newton

CONCERN is growing for a 19-year-old backpacker from Muswell Hill who has been missing in Australia for six days.

Jamie Neale was last seen on Friday (July 3) when he left his hostel in the state of New South Wales to climb the Blue Mountains, 60km west of Sydney.

New South Wales Police found some of Mr Neale's belongings, including his mobile phone and personal papers, at the hostel. They believe that he was planning a bushwalk and are concerned for his safety.

A spokesman for New South Wales Police told the Broadway: "It's the middle of winter here and overnight temperatures can drop to almost freezing.

"Considering that Jamie has been in the bush for more than five days now; and due to the rugged terrain in the area and the poor weather, police do have grave concerns for his wellbeing.

"We are unsure whether Jamie had the appropriate equipment or resources for the conditions on the trek."

Police have made an appeal for a Canadian backpacker, Mathew Cayes, aged in his 20s, to come forward. They believe he may have details about the route Mr Neale planned to take and could help police locate him.

Mr Neale had pre-paid to take a tour of the Jenolan Caves on Saturday 4 July, but he never turned up.

He checked into the hostel in Katoomba on Thursday (July 2) and was last seen at 9.40am the next day.

Police rescue teams, dog handlers and the fire brigade and a helicopter took part in an all-day rescue operation today (Thursday).

It has been reported that Mr Neale's father has flown out to Australia to search for his son.

A spokeswoman for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: "We can confirm that a British National was reported missing in the Blue Mountain area of New South Wales, Australia on 6 July. The local authorities are investigating and we are providing consular assistance to the family."

When he was last seen, Mr Neale was wearing a black jersey with white sleeves, white

T-shirt, blue jeans and trainers. He was carrying a burgundy day-pack. He is described as having a pale complexion, short dark hair, brown eyes and a beard.

Anyone who might have seen Mr Neale since Friday July 3, or have information on his whereabouts is urged to contact Blue Mountains Police via Crime Stoppers on (0061) 1800 333 000. All information will be treated in strict confidence.