POLICE are continuing to search for a 31-year-old man who went missing from his home in Ferryhill, County Durham, last Thursday (June 11).

Concern is growing for Darren John Lawler whose disappearance and failure to contact friends and family is described as out of character.

Yesterday (Sunday, June 14), the Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team began searching the Ferryhill area and searches will continue today and during the course of the week if necessary with police officers and search dogs.

Police have received numerous calls from the public with information about possible sightings but so far have been unable to locate Mr Lawler.

Inspector Simon Orton said: “With the passage of time we are becoming increasingly concerned about Darren’s well-being.

“Sometimes people disappear because they feel they need some time and space. I’d like to appeal to Darren to please contact either the police or a member of his family so that we can stop the anguish they are currently going through. I’d also like to assure him that we will respect his privacy if he gets in touch.

“Since we asked for help from the public, we’ve had a number of calls with information and we’d like to thank people for their help. We would also ask that you keep getting in touch with any possible sightings of Darren, by calling 101.”

Mr Lawler is white, of medium build with short dark brown hair and is clean shaven.

He was last seen wearing a khaki green hooded top with dark blue or black jeans and white Nike trainers with a black tick.

His right upper arm is tattooed with the name Simon.

Anyone with information regarding Mr Lawler’s whereabouts is asked to contact Durham police on 101 quoting reference DHM 11062015/0329.

Anyone with information is asked to ring 101.