POLICE say they remain concerned about a "still vulnerable" missing pensioner who needs hospital treatment.

Charles Dickens, 69, walked out of Darlington Memorial Hospital last month without telling staff.

He suffers from low blood pressure and is understood to require a blood transfusion.

There have been reported sightings of him in Darlington and Hartlepool and a giro in his name has been cashed in Dunfermline, Scotland.

Detective Sergeant Alec Francis, of Darlington police, said: "Until we see this individual, or we hear from him, he is still missing.

"We want to know that he is fit and well, and that there is no one else cashing his giro."

Mr Dickens, who has a history of sleeping rough, was last seen wearing a purple and grey jacket.

He is about 5ft 11ins, of average build, with grey hair and a pale complexion.

Anyone who can help the police should call (01325) 467681