Murder squad detectives investigating the disappearance of a missing priest have revealed blood found on his boat and in his car was his.

Forensic tests have identified blood found on the Rev Ronald Glazebrook's Toyota Carina car and his boat moored at Newhaven harbour as his.

Police have also revealed a blue carpet with multi-coloured flecks which lined the boot of his car has vanished.

One theory is he was murdered and dumped at sea but efforts by rescue divers have proved fruitless.

Further test results on other items found in the vicar's flat in Dane Road, St Leonards, are being awaited.

Mr Glazebrook was reported missing on April 30 by his daughter, Christine, 45, when he failed to turn up for church.

She made a plea for information at a Press conference last week in a bid to unearth fresh clues.

Detective Chief Inspector Kevin Moore, leading the inves-tigation, said: "Finding the carpet is vital to us. We would like to hear from anyone who can help."

He also revealed officers were investigating reports of a body seen on the coastline at Birling Gap, near Eastbourne, on May 4.

A member of the public reported seeing what they thought was a body but a sweep of the coastline proved fruitless.

Mr Moore said: "Investigations are continuing and there are a number of inquiries yet to be made."

Two 17-year-old youths arrested in connection with the disappearance of Mr Glazebrook, 81, have been bailed without charge until July.

Oxford-educated Mr Glazebrook is retired but helps out at Christ Church in London Road, St Leonards.

Anyone with information can call 0845 6070999.