CONCERN is rising for a father and his two young boys who have been missing for nearly three weeks.

Michael John Cole and his two boys were reported missing to Thames Valley Police on October 2.

The 43-year-old and his two sons, Michael, 8, and Harry, 7, are believed to come from Arborfield.

A number of family members and friends are believed to have been involved in assisting police with their search.

Superintendent Shaun Virtue said: "A substantial amount of work has been carried out following the initial missing persons report to Thames Valley Police on October 2.

"However, a court order has since been granted allowing an appeal to be published.

"I want to make an urgent plea to anyone who knows the whereabouts of Michael John Cole or the two boys to please contact police immediately.

"Any information, no matter how insignificant you think it might be, might help our investigation to ensure they are found safe and well.

"We do not believe Michael John poses any immediate risk to his sons but we do have concerns for the boys' long-term welfare in terms of access to education and to the National Health Service should it be required in the future.

Reading Chronicle:

"We have had help from a number of family members, friends and local residents during our investigation but so far unfortunately we have been unable to locate Michael John and his two sons."

Michael John Cole is a white man of a medium build with short dark hair and when he was last seen had a dark beard.

Michael Lee Cole is a white seven-year-old boy of a medium build with short blond hair and blue eyes.

Harry Cole is a white eight-year-old boy of a large build with short blond hair and blue eyes.

The father also has links to other areas in Berkshire, such as Wokingham, Bracknell and Reading.

He also has links to Basingstoke, Ludlow and Shrewsbury in Shropshire, and Bridge End and Newport.

Anyone with any information should call Thames Valley Police on 10, quoting reference number 43170291780.