HOUSEHOLDERS between Hordle and Christchurch are being urged to check outbuildings and gardens for a vulnerable elderly man missing since Sunday (Sept 5).

The search for Ralph Shawcross, 88, has been scaled up. He was last seen by staff at Hordle Cliff House nursing home in Cliff Road, Milford-on-Sea, at 8pm on Sunday.

There was an unconfirmed sighting at the refreshment kiosk in Hordle Cliff car park about 15 minutes later and another 24 hours after that two miles away at Hordle Parish Church.

Mr Shawcross's former address at Burton has been checked, as have the pubs he previously frequented.

Supt Barry Talbot said: "We are urging the public to help us by checking garages, sheds and gardens to see if Mr Shawcross has taken shelter."

Mr Shawcross is white, 5ft 8in tall with brown eyes and grey hair cut short.

He speaks with a broad Lancashire accent and is believed to be wearing a dark red jumper, orange shirt, dark brown trousers and black slip-on shoes.

Anyone who thinks they may have seen him at any time since Sunday evening should contact police on 0845 045 4545.

First published: Sept 8