Police are hunting a convicted rapist who has been recalled to prison.

David Scott was released on licence in April 2010 after he failed to comply with sex offender requirements.

The Metropolitan Police said he is known in the past to “regularly visit Brighton and Lewes areas of Sussex.”

Police are appealing for help finding the 36-year-old, who also has previous convictions for violence, but have warned people not to approach him.

Scott, who is also known as Robert Scott, was convicted in January 1997 of rape at Lewes Crown Court and sentenced to four years in prison and placed on the sex offenders register for life.

He was released on licence in December 1998 but has been sent back to prison numerous times for failing to comply with registration requirements as a sex offender.

Scott was convicted in January 2010 and given a sentence of six months in prison.

He was last recalled on April 16 but police said despite “numerous” enquiries they have not been able to find him.

Belfast born Scott is 5’5” tall, medium build with dark brown hair and a tattoo on his right arm of the Red Hand of Ulster.

He is known to police forces around the country including Kent, Hampshire, Lancashire, Lothian & Borders and the Northern Constabulary.

Anyone with information about Scott’s whereabouts should call Sussex Police on 0845 6080999, the Metropolitan Police Service on 0208 733 4585 or to remain anonymous Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.