NORTH Yorkshire Police have said they are becoming increasingly concerned for the welfare of a 32-year-old man who they say may be sleeping rough in the Pickering area.

The force issued an appeal last night, saying that enquiries have been ongoing to locate him since he was reported missing at 5.29pm on December 5.

The appeal said: "He is described as a white male, 185cm tall and of fat build.

"He has greying shaven, straight hair and may now have a short and stubbly beard.

"He is known to frequent the Pickering and Thorton-le-Dale areas.

"If anyone who has seen him, or knows of his whereabouts, they are asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101."