The sister of a man who has been missing for 38 years has appealed for him to get in touch with his family.

Ian Bushell was reported missing by his father in 1988, when he was aged 21. At the time of his disappearance he was of medium build with short, black cropped hair and was living in the Abbey Wood area of south east London. He is 5ft 6ins tall.

He is believed to have been seen by a family friend in Upton Park, east London, in 2007, when he answered to the name of Adrian and claimed to be living in Plaistow. The sighting was not reported to police at the time.

Ian would now be 60 years old. Detectives from the Met’s Missing Persons Unit have created an e-fit artist’s impression showing how he may look now.

They are supporting Ian’s sister, Rosalind Bushell, his only surviving relative, who has issued a heartfelt appeal to find her brother.

In a statement, Rosalind has said: “Ian, I really need to know if you are safe and well. It is the not knowing which is so difficult. I love you and miss you desperately. Please get in touch.

“If anyone knows anything about my brother please respond to this appeal.”

Detective Constable Anthony Drew, of the Met’s Missing Persons Unit, said:

“No missing persons case is ever truly closed when we have been unable to bring it to a definitive outcome. We remain committed to finding answers for Ian’s family, no matter how much time has passed.

“If anyone has seen or heard from Ian, or if Ian is reading this appeal, we would urge them to please contact us. Ian should know there are people concerned for his wellbeing who would be delighted to hear from him again.”

Anyone with information about Ian’s whereabouts is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference 01/7432265/25. You can also report information to the Missing People charity on 116 000.