SEARCHES are underway to find a missing man from Swanage.

Gerald Turner, 67, was last seen at his home address in Church Hill around 3am today. He was reported missing at around 11.30am.

A multi-agency search has been launched in and around the Swanage area to find him.

Gerald is described as around five feet seven inches tall and of slim build with short, thick, dark hair and a greying goatie beard and moustache. It is believed he was wearing light and dark blue checked fleece pyjamas, a black padded coast and brown slippers.

Chief Inspector Jim Beashel, of Dorset Police, said: “Gerald is known to become confused easily and it is believed he has been upset recently so we are becoming increasingly concerned for his welfare.

“We are carrying out extensive searches in the Swanage area, with support from the coastguard and DorSAR (Dorset Search and Rescue).

“I would ask anyone who has any information as to Gerald’s whereabouts or who sees a man matching his description to contact police immediately.

“I would also urge Gerald if he sees this appeal to contact us or your family as we all want to ensure you are safe and well.”

Anyone with information or knowledge as to Gerald's whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 4:179.