A police helicopter has been launched in Maidstone as search and rescue teams are stepping up their hunt for a missing pensioner.

Dennis Whyard, 89, was reported missing on Friday, having last been seen in the Forest Hill area of the town at 4.05pm.

Stewart Baird, from Kent Search and Rescue, said: "Despite a huge search operation which included rescue boats on the Medway, specialist search dogs and over 40 search officers, Dennis remains missing.

"The search was suspended at around 3am on Saturday.

"An Incident Command Centre has been set up today at Kent Fire & Rescue’s Headquarters and the search resumed at 11am.

"The public are urged to remain vigilant for Dennis and check any outbuildings in case he sought shelter overnight."

Mr Whyard is described as white, about 5ft 8in, with short grey hair, and is wearing a navy blue jacket, yellow shirt, and navy blue trousers.

Chief inspector Chris Mayers said: "We are following all possible lines of enquiry to find Dennis, including sending out specialist search officers and liaising with Kent Search and Rescue and we are becoming increasingly concerned for his welfare.

"I urge residents in Maidstone, particularly those near the town centre and to the south of the town, to check the areas surrounding their properties for any sign of him, in particular any sheds or outbuildings."

Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to call police on 101, quoting 01-0938.