POLICE last night renewed their appeals for help in tracking down a patient who has been missing for more than a week.

John Pedalty has not been seen since he left Darlington Memorial Hospital ten days ago.

Police remain convinced he is still in the County Durham or Teesside areas.

Hospital staff are also concerned as he is said to be in need of medication and is considered vulnerable.

Police officers were at the Thames Shopping Centre, in Newton Aycliffe, yesterday, as he has been known to frequent the area, and particular a bookmakers, on Wednesday afternoons.

Darlington police have spoken to other forces about Mr Pedalty, who lived on his own in the Eldon area, near Bishop Auckland. They have also spoken to some of his friends.

He is described as being of a large build, with a fair complexion, blue eyes, unkempt, receding white hair, a beard and thick rimmed glasses.

When last seen he was wearing grey jogging trousers, a mustard anorak and trainers.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681.