POLICE fear people may be harbouring a missing teenager with mental health problems thinking he is wanted for questioning.

Michael West, 19, a long-term patient at Middleton St George Hospital, near Darlington, was allowed home to see his mother for Christmas, but left her house at lunchtime on Christmas Day.

He rang his mother from a phonebox in Hartlepool at 9pm and was seen in Peterlee, County Durham, with people on Boxing Day.

His relatives in the Hartlepool and Peterlee areas have not seen him since.

He had been due back at hospital on the evening of Christmas Day.

Inspector Kevin Langan, from Peterlee police, said officers were aware of rumours circulating in the Peterlee area that Mr West was wanted by police for questioning, but said this was not the case.

He said: "This is a totally unfounded rumour.

"Our only concern is for Michael's safety and welfare. It may be that friends or acquaintances are being mistakenly loyal because of these rumours and are sheltering him."

Inspector Langan said that without medication, Michael, who is described as having poor social skills, may become confused, and said anyone who knows where he is should contact the police urgently.

Those leading the inquiry have passed on photographs of Michael and details of his medical history to hospitals and ambulance services throughout the North-East.

Local taxi firms have also been alerted, along with the Salvation Army and youth hostels. Posters have also been put up in local garages and off-licences in Peterlee.

Anyone with information is asked to call Peterlee police on 0191-586 2621.