POLICE have issued an urgent appeal for the public to help trace a 42-year-old man who walked out of the William Harvey Hospital yesterday.

Michael Apps, who lives in Rainham, pulled out his intravenous fluid line and left the Ashford hospital just before 3.30pm.

He is described as 6ft tall with short grey hair. He was wearing a scruffy grey sweatshirt.

Police say they are extremely concerned for his welfare.

Anyone who sees Mr Apps is urged to dial 999 and ask for Kent Police.