Police were today trying to trace rock star Richie James, of the Manic Street Preachers band, who has mysteriously disappeared. The 28-year-old Welsh guitarist vanished in London two weeks ago and there is mounting concern for his safety among his family, other band members and friends. He was last seen leaving the London Embassy Hotel at 7am on February 1 - the day he was due to fly to the United States for a series of media interviews. South Wales police, who are liaising with Metropolitan colleagues, said it was known he visited his Cardiff flat that day. He is believed to be still using his silver L-registered Vauxhall Cavalier car. A police spokesman said: "We would urge him to either contact his family or us to let people know he is safe and well. We are anxious to trace him but wish to stress that he will not be urged to return or reveal his whereabouts if he does not wish to do so." Last summer, James - full name Richard James Edwards - was reported to have admitted himself into a private clinic suffering from nervous exhaustion. Fellow band member Nicky Wire said: "If Richie does not want to come back, then that is fine. But we just want him to give us a call or send us a postcard." Edwards's father, Graham Edwards, of Blackwood, Gwent, has also appealed to him to contact the family.