POLICE are “increasingly concerned” for a missing 43-year-old Bournemouth man whose personal possessions were found on the beach.

Lee Ford’s mobile phone and other items were found near at Fisherman’s Walk zig-zag at Southbourne at 7.30am on Thursday.

He was reported missing the following lunchtime and the last known contact with him was on Wednesday, when he sent a text message to a friend.

Mr Ford is described as 5ft 3ins tall, of slim build, with shaved hair which is receding on the top. He is known to often wear a red jacket, khaki trousers and black army boots.

Police and the Coastguard have searched the beach and sea area between Boscombe and Southbourne.

Chief Inspector Jim Beashel, of Dorset Police, said: “We are really concerned Lee may have come to some harm and it is important that we find him as soon as possible.

“I am urging anyone who knows where Lee is or has seen someone matching his description to please call Dorset Police urgently.

“Finally, if Lee sees this appeal I would urge him to please make contact with someone to let us know he is safe. Your family and friends are very worried about you.”

Anyone with information about Mr Ford’s whereabouts should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident 24:168.