Concern is growing for a man who has gone missing from a mental health unit.

Jason Merriman, 43, has not been seen since leaving the Oaklands Centre in Chichester on unescorted leave at 12.45pm yesterday.

He was due back yesterday afternoon. There are concerns for Mr Merriman's welfare as he has mental health problems.

Sussex Police is advising the public notto apprach him.

Inspector Robert Moore said: "Jason's behaviour may be erratic or irrational due to his mental condition."

Mr Merriman has connections along the south coast, including Brighton, Chichester, Southampton and the Isle of Wight.

He is white, 6ft 2in, broadly built and has short brown hair. He was last seen wearing a blue long sleeved sweatshirt, green camouflage trousers and black trousers.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting serial 1056 of 11/04.