THE power of online social networking has been harnessed in a bid to locate missing man Jesse Jones, who disappeared after a night out in Swanage.

Such is the popularity of the 24-year-old, who was last seen near Swanage kebab shop at 01.35am on Sunday, that more than 1000 people have already joined an online group dedicated to finding him.

Members, many of them friends of the university graduate, have taken it upon themselves to search the surrounding area and spread the word of Jesse's disappearance over the internet and by circulating flyers.

A Twitter hashtag, #findjesse has been set up and celebrities including Eddie Izzard, Stephen Fry and Jonathan Ross have posted messages calling for anyone who's seen him to come forward.

Concerns for Jesse's safety intensified after his parents reported him missing late on Sunday.

He'd been due at work - at Ulwell Caravan Park - earlier that day, but failed to turn up.

Police launched a search operation, which included the force helicopter and specialised dog teams. The harbour area, fields surrounding Swanage and more isolated parts of the Purbeck coast have been scoured for clues to his whereabouts.

Police also searched the caravan park and have been sifting through CCTV footage and monitoring bank transactions.

Earlier, his father, Derek, said: "We are really worried - he's got to be somewhere. He isn't the sort of person to not let us know where he is going."

Posting comments on the 'please help search for Jesse John Jones' internet page, Rosie Lander said: "Just want to say the response that this facebook group is bringing is incredible, whether or not it's people making phone calls to gather information or actually out looking.

"Lets keep it up and give this nightmare a happy ending."

In a statement released by Dorset Police, Inspector Roger Robinson said: "Jesse has been very upset recently and those close to him fear he may come to some harm.

"If anyone has seen Jesse, or knows of his whereabouts, then please contact us urgently."

Call Dorset Police on 01202 222 222.