POLICE are stepping up searches for a missing 23-year-old man.

Samuel Daniel Devine has not been seen since Thursday and officers are using the helicopter and dog support unit to carry out searches.

Sam, as he is known to his friends and family, was staying with his grandparents in Ventnor, Isle of Wight.

On Thursday morning he left a note saying he was going to Newport and later that morning he sent a text to his granddad saying he would be back later.

He was seen at about midday on Thursday at Niton stores.

He is described as white with dark brown hair, 6ft 1in, of medium build and currently unshaven.

Sam was last seen wearing blue jeans, trainers and a light grey but dirty bomber style jacket.

A police spokesman said he has recently lost his job and split up from his girlfriend and suffering from depression.

His relatives say he hadn't washed or changed his clothing for a week.

Anyone with any information about Sam's whereabouts is urged to contact PC Paul Spreadbury at Shanklin police station on 101.