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DJ Derek reported missing: Legendary Bristolian disc jockey 'not seen in three weeks'

Derek Serbell-Morris was known across Bristol for his sets and played at Glastonbury and The Big Chill

Rose Troup Buchanan
Friday 24 July 2015 08:40 EDT
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DJ Derek has not been seen in three weeks
DJ Derek has not been seen in three weeks (Somerset and Avon police)

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Legendary Bristolian Derek Serbell-Morris, better known as DJ Derek, has been reported missing after not being seen in weeks.

Jennifer Griffiths, the 73-year-old DJ’s niece, reported his disappearance to Somerset and Avon police after he was not seen in three weeks.

DJ Derek is a cult figure in Bristol’s music scene, known for his eclectic music sets and appearances alongside high-profile artists.

Ms Griffiths told The Independent her uncle had uncharacteristically failed to reply to any of the family’s messages and after a local bar rang her to say they hadn’t seen him, she contacted the police.

“The response has been absolutely amazing,” she said. “The people of Bristol have got together and supported us”.

Bristol’s mayor George Ferguson also tweeted his support and offered to “spread word across Bristol”.

A spokesperson for Somerset and Avon police confirmed to The Independent that Mr Serbell-Morris had been reported missing yesterday evening.

“He is described as a white male, average height and slim build with grey hair. He also wears glasses,” they added.

Mr Serbell-Morris, a resident of St Pauls since 1978, started DJing in this 30s playing a unique blend of reggae, ska, rockstead, dancehall and soul music.

Previously an accountant, he went on to enjoy a celebrated career in Bristol’s lively music scene and appeared in a Dizzee Rascall music video, as well as playing at Glastonbury and The Big Chill.

If you have any information regarding Mr Serbell-Morris’s whereabouts, please contact Somerset and Avon police on 101 quoting reference MP 3388/15.

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