Search for backpacker

POLICE are searching for a British backpacker who went missing in the Australian bush.

Jamie Neale, 19, from London, has not been seen since Friday when police believe he left his hostel in the town of Katoomba, New South Wales, for a walk in the Blue Mountains.

A police spokesman said: “A number of Jamie’s belongings, including his mobile phone and personal papers, were found at the hostel.”

Police rescue teams, dog handlers and firefighters have all joined the search but bad weather has prevented an aerial search.

The teenager checked into the Katoomba youth hostel on Thursday.

Police are trying to trace a Canadian backpacker, Mathew Cayes, who they believe may have spoken to Neale before he left. It is believed he could have vital information about the route he planned to take.