POLICE have stepped up their search for missing Swanwick man Alan Bolton more than three weeks after he vanished.

Officers say they are "extremely concerned" about the 61-year-old's disappearance.

They have distributed more than 300 leaflets to people living near Mr Bolton's Swanwick Lane flat, appealing for information.

Missing person posters have also been put up at pubs and bus shelters in Swanwick, Sarisbury Green, Park Gate and Locks Heath.

Insp Steve Havis, leading the investigation, said: "We really would like to hear from anyone who has any information about Mr Bolton's whereabouts on or after March 11.

"Apart from two possible sightings near Marchwood on March 20 and March 26, we have heard nothing. He has never gone missing before and this is totally out of character."

Mr Bolton, who was single, was last heard moving around in his flat by his landlady.

Friends say he had been feeling down after going on sick leave from his cleaning job at Warsash Maritime Centre.

Police have received reports of two possible sightings from members of the public - on March 20 at Berry Road in Eling in the New Forest and on March 26 at Main Road near Hythe.

A search carried out by a police spotter plane and force dog teams failed to turn up any clues.

Police believe Mr Bolton, who had an interest in boats and the sea, may have gone to the Isle of Wight or to Hemel Hempstead where he has relatives.

He is described as being 5ft 6in with a pale complexion and black thinning hair. He usually wears jeans and a dark top.

If you can help call Fareham CID on 0845 045 4545.