LITTLE BAY, Westmoreland

The tranquility of this seaside community remains shattered following news last Tuesday of the uncanny disappearance of 48-year-old businessman Samuel ‘Uncle Sam’ Clayton and his common-law wife, 46-year-old Sonia Walters.

After eight days, hopes of finding them alive are rapidly waning among distraught residents, including family members and friends of especially Clayton who is seemingly well-loved throughout the small fishing village.

“Two months ago them shoot me nephew Patrick Clayton in Retreat in the parish and now ‘Uncle Sam’ gone, we wondering a who next.” Clayton’s sister, Josephine, pondered. “He was so nice and kind. He cooked and gave away meals to old people and everybody in the community.”

“Let me tell you, me come right here every evening and watch television, the news, weather report and charge me cellular phone right here at Uncle Sam, “added friend Alves McNiel.

Clayton and Walters who operated a small restaurant and bar on the seafront went missing last Tuesday.

Their absence was noticed after Clayton’s businessplace was uncustomarily cloaked in darkness throughout Tuesday night and calls to him went unanswered.

Yesterday, the Observer West was shown a pot of mouldy rice and peas left last Tuesday by Clayton in his kitchen.

Clayton, who is of fair complexion and medium build was last seen in a multi-coloured shirt, blue denims and brown slippers.

Walters who is also called Whyme, is said to be of a dark complexion, about four feet, six inches tall, of medium built with black hair.

The Westmoreland police are asking anyone with information of the whereabouts of the couple to contact them.