AN appeal has been launched to trace a 49-year-old Ipswich man who has been reported missing.

AN appeal has been launched to trace a 49-year-old Ipswich man who has been reported missing.

Michael Forsythe, of Downing Close, has not been seen since he left his house between 8am and 8.15am today.

He was reported missing at around 9.30am.

Although he has been missing before, it is unusual as he rarely leaves the house, police said.

He is unlikely to have any money and is not in possession of a mobile phone or vehicle. However, his red Raleigh racer bike has gone from the address.

Mr Forsythe is white, about 6ft, of slim to medium build, clean-shaven and with very long blond hair to the middle of his back which could be down or in a pony tail.

He was wearing a white t-shirt, a black leather biker jacket, charcoal coloured jeans and light blue and cream trainers.

He also has a number of distinctive tattoos on both arms and his hands. Most notable are MIKE on the fingers of his left hand, a rising sun and an eagle's head on his left hand and a swallow in the web of his right hand.

A police spokesman said: “It is important to trace Michael Forsythe and officers are asking him or anyone who sees him or knows of his whereabouts to contact the duty sergeant at Ipswich Police Station on 01473 613500 without delay.”