DOUBLE murder suspect James Allen is reported to have been sighted in Leeds - and is known to have stayed at a Scarborough hotel after the killings.

Detectives, who believe the fugitive may be trying to alter his appearance by growing his hair, say they are investigating potential sightings in the Harehills area of Leeds on Thursday evening and Friday.

A major manhunt is continuing for the 35-year-old, who is wanted in connection with the murder of Julie Davison, 50, in Whitby, on Wednesday and Colin Dunford, 81, in Middlesbrough, on Monday.

Armed police raided houses in the Pallister Park Area of Middlesbrough and the search extended to Scarborough after it was confirmed Allen had stayed at the Allerton Croft Hotel in the resort's West Square on Wednesday night.

Detective Chief Superintendent Gordon Lang, who is overseeing both murder investigations, urged members of the public to call 999 immediately if they see Allen.

He said: “This operation continues on a 24/7 basis and it will do until we trace and arrest James Allen.

“Someone must know where he is. He will have confided in someone and I would appeal to that person to come forward and get in touch with us.

“Two innocent people have lost their lives and it is absolutely vital that we catch James Allen as soon as possible.

“If you know where he is now, call us. James, if you are reading this, give yourself up, it is only a matter of time before we find you.”

Anyone with information about either murder is asked to contact 101 and ask for Cleveland Police.