CONCERN was growing today over the whereabouts and safety of a 47-year-old man who has failed to return home after going for a walk.

Police were resuming the search for Anthony Simpson in woodland and walkways near his home in Langley Park, west of Durham city.

There have been no reported sightings of the father-of-two since he left the family home on Wednesday evening, at around 7pm, telling his wife Barbara that he was going for a walk.

He was later in contact, briefly, with the police on his mobile telephone, but that conversation was broken off and there has since been no response.

Acting Inspector Colin Dobson said a detailed search was carried out in wooded areas between Langley Park and Lanchester yesterday.

"It involved police dogs, the police helicopter and members of the local fell rescue team, but no trace of him was found."

Speaking this morning, Acting Insp Dobson said: "The search will continue today, but as time goes on we are becoming increasingly concerned for his well being."

There is a well used walk way on an old railway track between the two villages which attracts many dog walkers, ramblers and cyclists.

The adjacent, well wooded countryside is regularly used by Mr Simpson, who is described as 5ft 10in, with blue eyes and cropped light brown hair.

He was clean shaven when he left home and was wearing blue corduroy trousers, a white and purple striped short-sleeved shirt and a dark green three-quarter length coat.

Acting Insp Dobson said: "We would urge anyone out and about in that area to keep an eye open for this man.

"If they have seen him, we would like to hear from them.

"Obviously, we would urge Mr Simpson to get in touch with us or his family who are extremely worried about him."

Anyone with information should ring police on 0845-6060365.