CONCERN is growing for a man who has not been seen for almost three weeks.

Yi Yin Xue, aged 31, went missing from his home above the New China Wok Chinese food take-away in the Central Precinct, Chandler’s Ford, on Sunday, November 20, sometime between 5 and 6pm, although police were not informed until eight days later.

Mr Xue has previously gone missing for two to three days at a time and has either returned home or been found by family members in public areas, such as train stations or libraries.

He has also been known to sleep rough. It is thought Mr Xue had around £500 in cash with him when he left and he is known to frequent casinos and other gambling establishments.

Previous disappearances have been linked to gaming debts.

Mr Xue is described Chinese, around 5ft 3 of a slim build with cropped black hair and is normally clean shaven but may now have stubble.

He is believed to have been wearing a dark green jumper, khaki combat trousers and canvas trainers and a a gold necklace.

DI Dave Morgan, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are very concerned for the welfare of Mr Xue due to a substantial risk of danger owing to his vulnerability in being homeless, or that he may have been the victim of crime due to a gambling debt. "Additionally, his mental state may be such that he could be a threat to his own safety. We appeal to anyone who may have seen him or knows where he might be to contact us.

“We would particularly like to hear from anyone who may have used public transport locally on Sunday, November 20 after 5pm, or anyone who has visited local gambling establishments in the area since that date.

“We would also ask, if you live in the wider Chandler’s Ford area, did you order a home delivery from the New China Wok Chinese food take-away in the preceding days before Mr Xue went missing. If so, what car was used for that delivery? Have you seen him working in another restaurant or Chinese take-away in the area? If you travelled on South West Trains services to London that day or in the days following Mr Xue’s disappearance, was he a passenger?”

He added: “Mr Xue, if you are aware of this appeal, please contact the police immediately. Your wife and children are extremely worried about you and are missing you. You are not in trouble with the police and we just need to know that you are safe and well.”

Anyone with information about Mr Xue’s whereabouts is asked to contact Eastleigh police station on 101 or 0845 045 45 45 if phoning outside Hampshire, or the Crimestoppers charity line anonymously on 0800 555 111.