Twenty years on: Police make fresh appeal for information on missing Belfast man Martin Kelly

Missing since 2006: Belfast man Martin Kelly

Police have renewed their appeal for information on the disappearance of Belfast man Martin Kelly, marking 20 years since he was last seen.

Martin, who worked as a plumber and part-time barman at the Priory Inn in Holywood, went missing in January 2006 after a night out with friends over the New Year period. Despite extensive police investigations, searches and appeals, his whereabouts remain unknown.

Detective Inspector Stephen Harvey said the case continues to cast a long shadow over Martin’s loved ones.

“The disappearance of Martin has had a profound impact on his family.”

He outlined Martin’s movements in the hours leading up to his disappearance.

“Martin, who worked as a plumber and a part-time bar man in the Priory Inn at Holywood, worked on New Year’s Eve 2005 and then went on to two house parties with friends.

“On New Year’s Day, he and his friends went to Pat’s Bar in Garmoyle Street to watch a football match. The friends left and Martin remained in the bar talking to other customers. He left at about 7.10pm and hasn’t been seen since.”

At the time, Martin was described as being approximately 6ft 1in tall, of slim build, with short dark hair. He was wearing a black ‘Guinness’ T-shirt and blue jeans when he was last seen.

Police say a wide-ranging investigation was launched following his disappearance, involving significant resources.

“Police investigating Martin’s disappearance carried out searches on land and on the water and deployed the diving team and air support team in these searches. We have also undertaken extensive enquiries but despite conducting a wide range of interviews and reviewing all available CCTV relating to the incident, Martin has not been located.”

Two decades on, detectives insist the case remains open, with officers continuing to pursue new information.

“We remain committed and determined to discovering what happened to Martin and detectives will continue to follow up all new lines of enquiry and any new information.”

The anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring pain experienced by Martin’s family, who have lived for 20 years without answers. Police hope that the passage of time may encourage someone with information — however small it may seem — to come forward.

“We would urge anyone who may have knowledge of Martin’s disappearance to contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or Missing People on 116 000. Information can be provided anonymously.