Police are today continuing to search for a 66-year-old patient missing from Clacton Hospital.

David Royle, was last seen on Friday evening in the Boley Drive area of the town.

Mr Royle is white, about 5ft 5ins tall and of slim build. He has a beard and shoulder-length light brown and grey hair, thinning on top but swept back and combed.

When last seen he was wearing a dark blazer, trousers, light-coloured shirt and tie and a flat cap.

Inspector Gary Chapman, who has been leading the search today, said: “We now have a very recent photograph of Mr Royle and although it is of poor quality it does show him in a flat hat and smartly dressed.

“The search will be continuing today and the Essex Police mounted unit and marine unit will be involved in searches of more remote areas and waterways.

“We will also be joined by volunteers from the local Lowland Search and Rescue Unit.

“We would also appeal to all dog walkers or ramblers to look out for Mr Royle if they are walking across the open and remote areas around Clacton.

“If anyone has seen Mr Royle they should phone officers at Clacton on 101 immediately.”