POlICE in north Kent are continuing to search for a young man who absconded from a court.

Joshua Caird, 19, has not been seen since escaping from custody on Monday at Dartford Magistrates' Court where he appeared charged with one count of burglary.

The magistrates remanded Caird, of Almond Road, Stone, near Dartford, in custody. But on the way back to the court cells he managed to escape and has not been seen since.

Det Con Glen Blanchard, of Gravesend police, said: “We have made initial inquiries but have so far failed to locate Joshua Caird.

“He has strong ties with north Kent so it is likely that he is still in the area. We would ask members of the public to keep their eyes open and if they see him, to let us know.

“We would ask people not to approach him direct but to give us a call with any sightings or information they may have.”

If you think you can help, telephone Det Con Blanchard on 01474 565135 or Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.