Police are launching a nationwide appeal to find a man who has gone missing from a mental health unit in south Essex.

Derek Jarrett left the unit in Benfleet on Wednesday, April 30 with a woman. She returned on Saturday, May 3 after being found in Bristol by police.

Following a series of enquiries, detectives believe there is a possibility that he has travelled to London, Kent or Maidenhead; but not ruling out the prospect that he still may be in the Bristol area. As a result, officers from the Metropolitan Police, Kent Police and Thames Valley Police have been alerted to his disappearance with Avon & Somerset police continuing their search for him.

Derek Jarrett is described as white, is approximately 5ft 6ins tall, has grey hair and has several tattoos on his arms. He was caught on CCTV at a hotel in Bristol where he stayed at. He should not be approached, with people instead urged to contact police immediately.

Anyone who sees Derek Jarrett should contact police on 999.