An appeal has been launched to help find a boy who was last seen at a County Durham hospital.

Northumbria Police have launched a fresh appeal to help find James College, 13, from Newcastle, who was reported missing on December 28, last being seen at the University Hospital of North Durham.

Police have said it is understood he has since travelled by train from Durham to Newcastle, towards the Byker area.

They have said they are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Searches are currently ongoing to find him, and we're asking anybody who thinks they may have seen James to get in touch with police.

“He is described as a white teenage male, around 5 foot 7 inches in height, of slim build, with short mousey brown hair.

Most read:

Grab our digital subscription and stay connected with local happenings. Click here

“James was last seen wearing a black Berghaus coat, grey Hugo Boss t-shirt, light blue-grey Berghaus bottoms and black and blue Nike trainers.

“He is known to frequent the Byker and Elswick areas of Newcastle.

“James, or anyone who has seen him, is asked to get in touch with us by calling 101 immediately quoting reference number: NP-20231229-0299.”