A man missing from Maidstone since early April could be camping in woodland, police say.

Officers are continuing their search for 48 year-old Vincent Newell, and have renewed an appeal for information on his whereabouts.

Due to the length of time since he was last seen by his family, police are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare.

It is believed that he may be camping in woodland or country parks within the Maidstone, Leybourne or Trottiscliffe areas.

He has missed medical appointments and requires medication that if not taken could in time make his behaviour unpredictable and erratic if he feels threatened.

But police are not ruling out that he may be staying with associates. Officers believe he is staying away out of choice.

"He is meant to take medication on a monthly basis which he has not done and this does cause us concern as this will affect his mental health" - Insp Jerry Prodger

Inspector Jerry Prodger from Kent Police said: "Vincent has not been seen for some time now.

"He is meant to take medication on a monthly basis which he has not done and this does cause us concern as this will affect his mental health.

"Vincent will be uncomfortable around strangers and be seeking to spend time on his own so we would continue to ask anyone who sees him or who has any information about his whereabouts to contact police directly rather than make contact with him.

"When we do find him we will be taking him to hospital for a mental health assessment."

Kent Police are regularly liaising with his family.

Anyone with any information, or who has seen Mr Newell is asked to contact Kent Police by calling 101, quoting incident reference 0403-0770.