The family of a Watford man are appealing for answers after he vanished in the middle of the Indian Ocean during a round-the-world sailing adventure.

Sean Terry, 48, a quantity surveyor, took early retirement from his job at engineering firm Edmund Nuttall Ltd to undertake a round-the-world sail and has not been heard of since June 18.

The 40ft yacht belonging to South African-born Mr Terry was sailed into the Seychelles a week later by scuba diver Stefan Pokorny.

Mr Pokorny has been arrested in connection with the disappearance, he is due to appear in a Seychelles court on Thursday.

Judith Middleton, a representative for the family, who are based in South Africa, told The Independent Mr Terry would not have thrown himself overboard.

She said: "There is so much in this story that doesn't add up. Pokorny came on board the yacht as an experienced and strong diver and the family wants to know why he did not do more to rescue Sean.

"He told police that Sean got angry and jumped off the boat, but that does not add up. He told police it happened at night and in bad weather but other ships in the area said the weather was fine.

"It is very unusual. This man's evidence is critical and we need to know more than we have been told. He is the only person who knows what happened. The family are asking what he did to help Sean. The man-over-board button was not pressed and the satellite communication equipment was not used to radio for help. The family are desperate for answers."

Do you know Mr Terry? Did you used to work with him? If so, please contact the newsdesk on 01923216200.