POLICE are appealing for information about the whereabouts of a man who went missing after Middlesbrough's defeat in the Uefa Cup final.

Unemployed Gary Cowan, of Acclom Street, Hartlepool, has not been seen since he left a friend's home at about 9.30pm on Wednesday, May 10.

The 44-year-old spent the evening at his friend's home in Chatham Gardens, Hartlepool, but then mysteriously disappeared.

Police said Mr Cowan's disappearance was totally out of character. They said he does not appear to have returned to his home, where he had left his two dogs without food.

Mr Cowan is described as being about 5ft 4in, stocky, with a pierced left ear. He also has a tattoo of a pack of playing cards on his left arm. On the night he disappeared, he was wearing a blue sports jumper, jeans and trainers.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: "Police say there appears to be no reason why he has disappeared and request that he contact them to say he is safe and well."

Anyone with information about Mr Cowan's whereabouts is asked to contact Acting Inspector Helen Eustice on (01642) 302126.