A suspected sex offender is being hunted by police after he failed to appear in court nearly a year ago.

James Dunham, 33, failed to appear for trial at Lewes Crown Court in January on a charge of causing or inciting a girl under 16 to engage in sexual activity in Heathfield.

A court warrant for his arrest was issued.

Dunham, a landscape gardener, whose last known address was in Albert Parade, Eastbourne, is described as white, 5'10", of medium build, with green eyes and short brown hair.

A Sussex Police spokesman said; "Dunham is not believed to present a physical risk to the general public but anyone who knows where he is asked to contact us right away."

Anyone who sees Dunham, or knows where he may be, is asked to contact Sussex Police on 101 or email contact.centre@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting serial 329 of 04/12.

Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.