Police have launched an urgent appeal to trace a high-risk missing person in Gateshead.
Stuart Liddell, 69, was reported missing on Tuesday evening after he was last seen leaving his home in Rowlands Gill for a walk at about 11am.
It was believed he would have been heading towards the Derwent Walk area.
Police have been searching for Mr Liddell overnight and a large-scale operation to locate him is ongoing today.
Officers are now appealing for anyone who may have seen Mr Liddell to get in touch but they have asked that people do not leave their homes to join the search.
Superintendent Karl Wilson, of Northumbria Police, said: “We have a significant number of resources out looking for Stewart and that will continue throughout the day.
“We are very concerned for his welfare, particularly considering he has spent the night away from his home and his family.
“If anyone has seen a man matching Mr Liddell's description in the area of Derwent Walk, perhaps on your once daily exercise, then we would urge you to get in touch.
“Please don’t leave your homes to try and join the search efforts as we need people to continue to follow the stay at home guidance and there are a significant number of police resources in the area.
“We would ask you instead help us by sharing our appeal and contacting us if you do believe you have seen Stewart since yesterday morning.”
Mr Liddell is described as 5ft2in tall, of thin build, with grey hair but no longer has his moustache as seen in the photo.
He is believed to be wearing a dark blue fleece, white jumper and carrying a green canvas bag.
Anyone who has seen Mr Liddell is asked to contact police on 101 quoting incident number 757 of March 31.
