Fears as man goes missing

A man who needs daily dialysis treatment to help keep him alive has gone missing from his Shrewsbury home, sparking fears over his welfare.

Martin Robert Heath, 55, was last seen in the town at 2.30pm yesterday, less than two hours before he was due to attend the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for treatment.

A nationwide alert has been sent to police forces across the country to look out for Mr Heath, of Trinity Street. He is believed to be driving a grey Volvo estate car, registration M815 NNT.

Inspector Martyn Barnes, of West Mercia Police, said: "Martin Robert Heath has various medical conditions. The major problem is he needs dialysis and if he doesn't get dialysis it could be potentially fatal for him.

"He left his home address in Trinity Street about 2.30pm. He should have had the dialysis in the afternoon. We are concerned for his welfare."

He said: "Without the appropriate medical care we are becoming increasingly concerned that his welfare will suffer.

"He left his home in a grey Volvo estate vehicle. We would appeal for anybody who sees that vehicle or who knows the whereabouts of Martin to contact West Mercia police on 0300 333 3000."

Inspector Barnes said Mr Heath had been discharged from the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital on Thursday morning with a view to returning for daily dialysis.

Police have also searched the area around his home and visited places he is known to go to, including the Talbot Inn in Much Wenlock.

Inspector Barnes said: "We have circulated nationally the details of his vehicle and we have asked for support from all other police forces should this male or the vehicle be located."