POLICE are concerned for an agricultural student who has not been seen since Wednesday lunchtime.

Richard Barnett, 22, attends East Durham and Houghall Community College's Hough-all site, on the outskirts of Durham City, and lives on the site with his partner, Lisa Berry.

He was last seen riding out of the college grounds on his silver mountain bike, carrying a rucksack

Acting Inspector Phil Atess said Mr Barnett was believed to be suffering from stress, but there was no obvious explanation for his disappearance.

He said: "He told no one that he was going, left no note and has not been involved in any row that we are aware of.

"At this stage, we do not know what money he had or what clothing he took with him. He has made no contact with anyone since leaving and in all the circumstances, that is a particular concern.

"We, and his family, need to know he is safe and well."

Mr Barnett is 5ft 8in, slim, and has short dark brown hair. When last seen, he was wearing a denim jacket with a fleece collar, dark blue jumper with a dark stripe across it and white trainers.

Anyone who sees him is asked to contact police on 0191-386 4222.