Update September 28, 9.38am: Ian has now returned home

OFFICERS are searching for a man who has gone missing from his home in Verwood.

Ian Church, aged 45, was last seen at 12.30pm yesterday when he left his home address in Merryfield Close.

Dorset Police says he was reported missing at 5.24pm.

He is described as white, five feet ten inches tall, bald and of medium build with stubble. He was last seen wearing skinny denim jeans with white parts that make them look ripped, a Southampton FC shirt, which is grey, maroon and black, and dark tan leather boots.

Chief Inspector Steve May, of Dorset Police, said: “Due to the passage of time that Ian has been missing for, we are becoming increasingly concerned for him. His red Citroen C1 registration HG68 AXP is also missing.

“We have carried out searches in Verwood and the surrounding areas but we have not located Ian.

“I would urge anyone with information as to his whereabouts, or who sees a man or vehicle matching the description given, to please contact police immediately.

“I would also like to make a direct plea to Ian if you see this appeal to please contact us or your family as we just want to ensure you are OK.”

Anyone with information or knowledge as to Ian's whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 26:395.