THERE are fears for the welfare of a 50-year-old-man who failed to return to his home in the South West from his regular workplace in St Helens, say police.

Andrew John Porter lives with his family in Gloucester but works during the week at a firm based on the Haydock Industrial Estate.

He was last seen by his colleagues at around 9.30am yesterday morning. It is believed he left the office without his personal possessions and since then he hasn't been seen.

Officers received a report that Mr Porter was missing at about 9.50pm on Friday, May 17 and since then have been carrying out extensive enquiries to try and establish his whereabouts. CCTV from the surrounding area is being located and reviewed.

Mr Porter is described as white, approximately 5ft 8in tall and of a slim build. He has got snow white hair and speaks with a Birmingham accent.

When he was last seen he was smartly dressed, wearing a shirt and a tie.

A police spokesman said: "Andrew's disappearance is totally out of character and his family are becoming increasingly concerned about his welfare.

"They are appealing to Andrew, or anyone who knows where he is, to get in touch with the police."

Anyone who has seen Andrew, or has any information about his whereabouts, is asked to call officers in St Helens CID on 0151 777 6812 or via the police 101 number, or the Missing People's Helpline on 116000.