POLICE were today appealing for help finding a vulnerable missing man from Southampton.

Officers said they were "very concerned" for the safety of James Searle, pictured, who failed to return home on Wednesday night.

The 27-year-old, of Chelveston Crescent in Lordshill, was last seen at about 9pm by his landlord, who he shares a house with.

He left to go to Sainsbury's nearby and hasn't been seen since, however police think it is likely he was in Brockenhurst in the early hours of yesterday morning and may still be in the New Forest area.

A spokesman said: "James is thought to be in a vulnerable state. He is on medication and is believed to be depressed."

He is described as 6ft 2in, slim with long, shoulder-length mousey blond hair, which is usually tied back.

He was wearing a black knitted chunky cardigan, dark blue jeans and dark walking boots.

Anyone who thinks they may know his whereabouts, or who may have seen him, is asked to call the Duty Sergeant at Shirley Police Station on 0845 045 45 45 as soon as possible.