23-year-old Ken Teasdale has been on the run for eight days for a crime he did not commit.

Police yesterday appealed to him to come out of hiding because they know he is innocent.

His mother is convinced her son took flight after rumours circulated in his home town of Peterlee, County Durham, that he was wanted in connection with a burglary in January.

Yesterday, police appealed to him to get in touch with his family, assuring him he is not under investigation.

Acting Sergeant Simon Gdaniec, of Peterlee police, said: "Mr Teasdale seems to have left home because of local talk that he was wanted for burglary, but that is completely wrong.

"He is not being sought in connection with any crime and our sole interest is confirming he is fit and well.

"He only needs to pick up the phone and make a call to reassure his family he is safe."

The Northern Echo is doing its bit by distributing "Not Wanted" posters.

The last sighting of Mr Teasdale was on Wednesday, March 23, when he left the home he shares with his mother, in Matterdale Close, Peterlee. Officers believe he may be heading to Blackpool, where his aunt and uncle run a hotel.

He is described as white, 5ft 10in and stockily-built, with blue eyes, a pale complexion and close-shaven, mousey hair. He also has the words "Toon Army" tattooed across his shoulder blades.

Anyone with information is asked to call police, who insist this is no April Fool's joke, on 0845 6060365.