Police have appealed to the public for assistance in finding a hospital patient who has gone missing.

Matthew Powell, 30, was reported missing at about 8.40pm yesterday by staff at the John Radcliffe Hospital, in Oxford, where he was being treated.

He was described as white, about 6ft, stocky, with shoulder-length brown hair and was last seen wearing a brown T-shirt and white tracksuit bottoms.

Sgt Joanne Martin said: “We are concerned for Mr Powell’s welfare as he is vulnerable and requires medication.

“The grounds of the hospital were searched overnight, local taxi and bus companies have been contacted and other inquiries have taken place.

“I appeal to anyone who has seen a man of his description or knows of his whereabouts to contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information should call police on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.