UPDATE: Police have confirmed that David has now been located

ORIGINAL: An urgent appeal has been launched in a bid to find a 77-year-old man who has been reported missing.

Cheshire Police is appealing for help from residents in tracing Runcorn man David Woods, who was last seen in the early hours of this morning, Wednesday.

David was seen at around 1.05am on CCTV leaving his home in the Hillside Avenue area of Runcorn, before walking in the direction of Runcorn Hill.

The 77-year-old is described as being white, of a medium build, around 5'10" tall and with dark thinning hair.

When he was last seen, David was wearing a grey parka-style coat and navy-blue trousers.

Inspector Nick Bamber said: “We have been conducting a number of enquiries to locate David, and we would now like to appeal to anyone who may have seen him since he was reported missing, or has any other information on his whereabouts, to get in touch with us.

"David is described as being hard of hearing and may have some trouble with balance while walking.

“In light of the cold weather conditions, I would also like to ask residents to keep an eye on and check any outbuildings, sheds or bus stops in case David has decided to seek shelter.

“We would also like to appeal directly to David if he sees this to please get in touch to let us know you are ok, as your family are growing increasingly concerned.”

Anyone with any information regarding David’s whereabouts is asked to call Cheshire Police on 101, quoting IML-1976830, or visit cheshire.police.uk