POLICE are becoming increasing concerned for the welfare of a missing Sturminster Newton man – with a picture of the man being released.

John Wells, aged 37, was last seen at his home address along Honeymead Lane last night, Friday July 19. He left the address driving a silver Mazda 3 with the registration number HV04 ECW.

Chief Inspector Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said: "I understand that John has been very upset recently and his family is concerned that he may come to some harm.

"It is important that John, or anyone who knows of John's whereabouts, comes forward as soon as possible.

“I would also like to hear from anyone who has seen his vehicle.

"I urge John to get in touch – we simply need to know that you are safe and well."

John is white, around five feet nine inches tall, of a stocky build, with short dyed black hair and green eyes. He is missing one front tooth and was clean shaven when he was last seen.

John has a number of tattoos: a large red dragon on his left forearm; a skull and spider on his left upper arm; a dark cobra outline on his right upper arm; and a multi-coloured eagle, also on his right upper arm.

He was wearing a grey round neck T-shirt, mid-blue denim jeans and white trainers.

Anyone with information or knowledge as to John's whereabouts should call Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 20:143.