POLICE are appealing for help to trace a man who has not been heard from in the three weeks since leaving his North-East home to take a train.

Steven Paul Sharma left his home in the Gosforth area of Newcastle on Friday, March 20, supposedly to travel by rail to Edinburgh.

But, he has not been seen or heard from in the ensuing weeks by his family, who are said to be becoming increasingly concerned.

Mr Sharma is described as a dark European man, 5ft 10ins, of stocky build with short black hair.

He is often said to be unshaven and was last seen wearing dark jeans, grey walking boots and has a green Trespass coat.

Mr Sharma also wears a Seiko gold coloured watch and had a small black and white Adidas holdall with him when he left home.

Police are concerned for his welfare and inquiries are continuing to locate him.

Officers are appealing for him to make contact with them, or anyone who recognises him to call police straightaway.

Meanwhile, a teenager from Tyneside, also reported missing over the weekend, has been located.

Fourteen-year-old Michaela Riley, from Newcastle, who was been reported as missing since Thursday (April 9), was said to have been found safe and well on Sunday morning (April 12).

* Anyone with information as to the whereabouts or sightings of Mr Sharma is asked to contact the Northumbria force, on 101, extension 69191.

Callers are asked to quote log number 998 of 10/04/15.

Alternatively they can ring the independent charity Crimestoppers, on its freephone, confidential line, 0800-555-111.