The grandfather of missing 21-year-old Taylor Stewart has issued an emotional public plea for his grandson to return home safely, revealing the young man’s promise to help with car trouble in what has become a desperate appeal amid freezing UK weather.

Taylor Stewart was last seen in the Church Heights area of Cookstown at approximately 5:30am on New Year’s Day. When he failed to return or make contact, his family reported him missing, prompting an urgent search by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

In a statement shared by police, Taylor’s grandfather Mitchell Crooks spoke directly to his grandson, his voice filled with worry and love. “We just want Taylor to come home,” Mr Crooks said. “The whole family is so worried about him, especially with the weather being so bad over the last few days.

“Please Taylor, just let us know that you are safe. You promised to help me with a few issues with my car so I need you home to help. Please get in contact.”

The plea highlights the personal bond between grandfather and grandson, with the simple promise of assistance now carrying profound weight. Sub-zero temperatures and harsh conditions sweeping the UK have heightened fears for Taylor’s welfare, as exposure risks grow with each passing day.

PSNI officers have conducted extensive searches in the Cookstown area, including door-to-door inquiries, CCTV reviews, and appeals for dashcam footage from early morning drivers. Taylor is described as approximately 5ft 10in tall, of slim build, with short brown hair. He was last seen wearing a dark jacket, jeans, and trainers.

Inspector Rachel Shields said: “We are extremely concerned for Taylor’s safety due to the prolonged period he has been missing and the adverse weather. There is no indication of third-party involvement at this stage, but we are keeping an open mind.”

Family members have gathered at the Stewart home, supporting one another while clinging to hope. Friends describe Taylor as a “quiet, kind lad” with no history of disappearing. “He’s close to his grandad,” one said. “That promise to help with the car — it’s so him. He wouldn’t want to worry anyone.”

The case has resonated across Northern Ireland, with social media appeals shared thousands of times under #BringTaylorHome. Community groups in Cookstown have organised volunteer searches, while local businesses posted flyers.

As the search enters its fifth day, Mitchell Crooks’ words — gentle yet urgent — have become the emotional centre of the appeal. “You promised to help me…” echoes not just a practical favour, but a grandfather’s deep love and fear for the young man he raised alongside the family.

Police urge anyone with information to contact them immediately on 101, quoting reference 512 of 01/01/26, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Sightings should be reported to 999.

In a winter gripped by cold, Cookstown waits anxiously for Taylor Stewart’s safe return — hoping a grandson keeps his promise to the grandfather who needs him most.