POLICE are searching for a pub landlord who has been missing since the weekend.

Gavin Allinson, 48, the landlord of the Royal Star, Startforth, near Barnard Castle, County Durham, left the pub without warning after closing time on Sunday and has not been seen since.

He was reported missing by Linda, his wife of 21 years, on Tuesday morning, and despite numerous inquiries, police have been unable to discover his whereabouts.

Inspector Kevin Tuck, of Barnard Castle police, said: "Several days have now passed since Gavin left, and we are anxious to track him down as there is concern for his wellbeing."

An appeal for information circulated to 500 farms and isolated houses in Teesdale through the police Farm-watch system failed to provide any leads.

Known as Gav, Mr Allinson has run the Royal Star for four years and is well known in farming circles.

Before he took over the pub, he farmed at Spanham Farm, at Scargill, near Barningham, for ten years. He is also known for his work as a dry-stone waller.

Friend Frank Watson said: "We just hope he comes back safely."

His behaviour was described as out of character. He left suddenly in the family car and did not take any spare clothing or possessions.

Mr Allinson is 6ft, of medium to large build with grey hair.

When he went missing, he was wearing a grey shirt with grey trousers and possibly a denim jacket with hooded top.

He was driving a black Ford Fiesta, registration J652 GRG.

Anyone with information is asked to call Barnard Castle police on (01833) 637328.