HAMPSHIRE police are helping in the search for a missing sex offender.

Officers from Hampshire Constabulary are backing an appeal to find David Chadwick after detectives revealed he caught a London-bound train passing through the county.

The 58-year-old from Weymouth was recently released from prison having been convicted of sexual offences against children in 2013.

After breaching his license conditions on February 10, he is now wanted by Dorset Police.

Hampshire officers are advising the public not to approach the man, but immediately call 999.

It has been confirmed by Dorset Police that Chadwick got off a London-bound train, which will pass through Hampshire railway stations, at Moreton in Dorset at around 12.40pm on February 10.

Detective Inspector Richard Dixey said: “David was required to present himself to the Probation Service at certain times but has failed to do so. Therefore, I am releasing a photograph of him in the hope that someone will know his whereabouts.

“Anyone who sees David should not approach him, as he presents a risk to the public, but immediately contact Dorset Police on 999.

“There may be various reasons why he has not complied with his licence conditions and I appeal to him directly to make contact with police at the earliest opportunity.”

David Chadwick is described as white, of medium build, around five feet ten inches tall, with short grey hair and a small scar on his left cheek.

When last seen he was wearing a dark coloured, Barbour style, jacket and glasses. He was also carrying A4 paperwork.

DI Dixey added: “I’d like to assure members of the public that officers are making every effort to find this man as soon as possible.

“It appears that David Chadwick could have taken a London-bound train and therefore we also want to make the public along this route aware.

“I’d also like to remind everyone that all calls will be treated in the strictest of confidence.”

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of David Chadwick should call Dorset Police on 999.