POLICE are still appealing for members of the public to help them locate a missing criminal from Bidford with connections in the Redditch area.

Stephen Wesley Blake, who was sentenced in his absence to eight years in prison, for possession of a shotgun, harassment, putting in fear of violence, and for cultivation of cannabis, has been on the run since July, when the extent of the forensic evidence against him was revealed.

Detective Constable Carl Buckley, said: "It is important we locate Blake as soon as possible so that he can start to serve the sentence the judge has given. We believe Blake, who is from Bidford could be anywhere in the country but are particularly appealing to people in the Redditch area where he has connections, to help them locate him as soon as possible.

"We are doing everything we can to locate him. This includes asking anyone with information on Stephen Wesley Blake's whereabouts to please contact Warwickshire Police.”

Anyone with information, should contact Warwickshire Police on 01926 415000 as soon as possible. Alternatively they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.