CONCERN is growing for the welfare of a missing 74-year-old Chandler's Ford man.

Widower John Reed - who has been known to walk as far as Winchester and Andover - was last seen at the Carthage Close home he shares with his son and daughter-in-law at 4pm last Saturday when he said he was "just popping out".

However, Mr Reed failed to return, and his family subsequently noticed that he had not taken his daily medication with him.

On a previous occasion when Mr Reed wandered away from home he was found at Andover the following day.

But he could not recall how he got there, except that he had walked.

Police say Mr Reed worked as a sales representative and is used to booking into hotels.

When last seen, he was wearing a white shirt, a tie, dark blue trousers, grey blazer, dark blue anorak and black leather shoes.

A police spokesman described the missing man as being of smart appearance.

Mr Reed is 5ft 8in with thinning grey hair. He weighs about 13 stone and has a ruddy complexion.

Anyone who sees Mr Reed is asked to contact police on 0845 045 4545 or - in an emergency only - to dial 999.

A Hampshire police spokesman said: "Eastleigh police are concerned for the welfare of 74-year-old John Reed, missing from his Chandler's Ford home since 4pm on Saturday.

"Mr Reed requires daily medication, which, if he does not receive, may increase risk of harm to himself."