People are being urged to check their gardens and garages for a missing boy who disappeared a week ago.

Russel Burrdett-Deakin, 17, was reported missing from his home near Sutton Road, Maidstone, at about 6.30pm last Wednesday.

Extensive searches have been carried out by police in the surrounding area, including locations near the River Medway, the town’s parks and footpaths, and public transport systems.

DCI Julia Pexton said: “We have teams of officers working around the clock with experts, including volunteers from Kent Search and Rescue, to try and safely locate Russel.

“We are now appealing to Maidstone residents to also help where possible. It is possible Russel is taking refuge in someone’s garden or outbuilding, so please just take a few minutes to make some checks.”

Russel is of slim build and when he was last seen had dark hair with blue colourings.

He was wearing red or maroon bottoms, along with a red Champion hooded top and carrying a black Under Armor rucksack.

Visitors to public spaces, who frequent areas such as Mote Park and Whatman Park, are also urged to be on high alert.

DCI Pexton added: “We are asking the likes of dog walkers and runners to please pay a bit of extra attention when out and about.

“Russel’s appearance may have altered since he was reported missing. His appearance may be scruffy, and we believe it is also possible that he may have dyed his hair black.

“Please report any sightings, even if you think there is only a small chance you may have seen Russel.”

With a week passing since he was last seen, officers are also asking people to cast their minds back to where they were when he went missing on the evening of Wednesday, September 6.

DCI Pexton said: “If you were in or around the Sutton Road and Park Wood areas did you see anyone matching his description, or who may have appeared distressed?

“Residents in these areas should check their home security systems, including doorbell cameras for any footage and possible clues.

“Finally, if Russel is reading this, I’d like to again reassure him he is not in any trouble. There are a lot of people really worried about him and we just want to know he is safe.

“He can speak to us at any time or if he prefers, can contact a friend or others who are here to help such as volunteers at the Missing People charity. They are available every day, between 9am and 11pm by calling 116 000.”

Anyone who may have information on Russel’s whereabouts should call 999, quoting 06-1384.