A 29-year-old man whose disappearance just before Christmas sparked several media appeals has been found safe and well.

Kent Police had said they were concerned for the welfare of Carl Stanley, of The Parade, Staplehurst, near Maidstone, after he vanished on December 22.

Mr Stanley contacted his parents after his mother, Jennie, made emotional appeals through the media for him to get in touch.

It is understood Mr Stanley had been suffering from depression since splitting from his girlfirend some two months ago.

A Kent Police spokesman said: "We would like to thank the media for their help in publicising the appeal to find Carl."