An ongoing investigation into the mysterious disappearance of Royal Navy Rating Simon Parkes, more than three decades ago, has led officers from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary to Gibraltar. As part of a potential new line of enquiry, a team of nine officers, including detectives and specially trained search officers, undertook a small excavation at Town Range Car Park from August 7 to August 10.
Simon Parkes, a radio operator from Bristol, was last seen in December 1986 while his ship, HMS Illustrious, was docked in Gibraltar. At just 18 years old, he had ventured ashore but never returned to the ship. Despite an extensive manhunt at the time, his whereabouts remained unknown, casting a shadow of uncertainty over his family and sparking decades of investigations into his disappearance.
The joint operation between Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, Royal Gibraltar Police, the Gibraltar Defence Police, and the Royal Navy aimed to uncover new clues regarding the young sailor’s fate. The team focused their efforts on Town Range Car Park, excavating around and inside water tanks based on new information that had surfaced. Sadly, the excavation did not yield any breakthroughs or tangible leads that could move the investigation forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Adam Edwards, who oversees the investigation, expressed gratitude to the involved parties and the public for their support during this operation. While the current search has concluded, Edwards emphasised that the investigation remains ongoing, and he acknowledged the dedication of Mr. and Mrs. Parkes, Simon’s parents, in their quest for answers.
The officers also paid their respects to Simon Parkes by visiting his memorial site and laying flowers on behalf of the investigation team. The symbolic gesture was meant to show support to the Parkes family during this challenging time.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary is encouraging anyone with information about Simon Parkes’ disappearance to come forward. Individuals can contact the police at 101, quoting Operation Thornhill, or provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
