POLICE yesterday began searching sand dunes along a North-East coast for a missing man.

Police are growing increasingly concerned for Derek Tony Franks, 43, of Blyth, Northumberland.

Officers, helped by a police helicopter and 20 search and rescue team members, have scoured the Blyth dunes.

Mr Franks, formerly of Lawson Court, Chester-le-Street, County Durham, was last seen by his partner on Sunday and was seen outside a chip shop in Comassie Road, Blyth, on Friday.

He is of medium build with very short brown hair and blue eyes. He was wearing work boots, blue trousers and a Newcastle United jacket.

Anyone with information has been asked to call police on (01661) 872555 extension 63526.