POLICE hunting a sex offender who went on the run after he was handed a lengthy jail term earlier this month are appealing for help to trace him.

James Mortlock

POLICE hunting a sex offender who went on the run after he was handed a lengthy jail term earlier this month are appealing for help to trace him.

Christopher Brown, 58, of the Methwold and Stoke Ferry area near Thetford, was sentenced to 13 years in prison for historic sex offences that occurred in the 1980's.

Detectives say investigations into his whereabouts had established he was abroad and possibly heading towards Eastern Europe. Before departing for Europe he hired a vehicle on January 9 and loaded it with furniture.

DC Hayley Gleave from Norfolk police's Child Abuse Investigation Unit said: “We know from our inquiries that he left the UK for mainland Europe.

“I'd like to point out that we don't believe he poses a threat to members of the public. However, people should not approach him but should contact police immediately.

“We know that Mr Brown works as a courier, so we are appealing for help from people he may have met through his job. He may have mentioned to them his future plans to travel and live abroad. If you recognise this individual and have had a recent encounter with him or seen him, then please get in touch with us and let us know.”

Anyone who has knowledge of his whereabouts or information that could assist in locating the convict should contact DC Gleave at Swaffham Police Station on 0845 4564567 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.