A Sunderland 62-year-old has been missing for three days, after failing to get in touch with his family and friends. 

Police are appealing for anyone with information on the whereabouts of Stephen Simmons, who was last seen on Tuesday, April 4. 

Mr Simmons was spotted in the Mortimer Street area of Sunderland on Tuesday, April 4 and spoken to over the phone on Wednesday, April 5.

However, he has not been heard from since and police are now growing increasingly concerned for his welfare.

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Searches are ongoing to locate him and ensure he is safe and well – and police are now asking anybody who thinks they may have seen him to get in touch.

Stephen is described as a white male of slim build, around 5ft4 in height, with grey hair, and a tattoo on his right forearm.

He is believed to be wearing grey tracksuit bottoms with a green puffer jacket.

Stephen, or anyone who has seen him, is asked to call 101 immediately quoting log NP-20230406-1234.