A WORRIED mother said she feels like she has been living “a nightmare” since her son went missing four weeks ago.

Adam Taylor, 18, was last seen at about midnight on January 23 at his home near Manners Way in Southend when he left without saying a word.

The teenager has not been seen since and his mother Clare Taylor has now launched a campaign to try and track him down and make sure he is safe.

Ms Taylor, who works as a learning support assistant, said: “I feel like I am in a nightmare and will wake up soon to find it is just a bad dream.

“Everyone keeps saying it is so out of character for him to just disappear like this.

“He has always been so protective of me, he would not just leave. I want him home safe more than anything.”

Adam left the house wearing a dressing gown with blue jeans and a white top underneath.

He also had distinctive black Nike trainers on with a yellow tick on the side.

Ms Taylor describes him as of slim build, about 5ft 5ins and light brown hair.

He took a bank card and his phone with him but nothing else.

His phone has been turned off since the night he went missing.

Adam lived at home with his mother and sister and has no history of mental health problems that his family are aware of.

His mother said he had made plans to meet friends the following day but never appeared.

Ms Taylor added: “He’s very family-oriented.

“That’s why this is completely out of character for him.

“He was studying catering at South Essex College and was enjoying that course.

“He’s a very loving young man and wasn’t afraid to show his feelings by telling me he loves me and kissing my forehead. He has a cheeky character and smile about him.”

If you have seen Adam or have any information about his whereabouts you can contact his mother by searching Find Adam Taylor on Facebook and leaving a post on the page. You can also share any information with Essex Police by calling 101.