Police are concerned for the welfare of a man who has failed to return from the hospital where he was staying.

Mark Stephenson, 45, was last seen at about 1pm yesterday after leaving St Andrew's, in Pound Lane, North Benfleet.

He was expected to return, but failed to do so.

Officers are appealing for the public's help to find Mr Stephenson.

He is 6ft 6ins tall, of large build and has very short grey hair. He was last seen wearing grey jogging bottoms, a blue and grey spotted polo shirt and Nike trainers.

Anyone who has seen him is asked to call police on 101.