Police continue search for 50-year-old missing teacher Nicholas Harper

Police are continuing to search for a missing student teacher in Helmsley in North Yorkshire.

Nicholas Harper, 50, from Pickering, was last seen when he left for his work placement on the morning of Thursday 7 February.

He never arrived for work and his vehicle was later found at Cowhouse Wood, north of Helmsley, where police searches are continuing.

Inspector Dan Spence of North Yorkshire Police said concern was mounting over Mr Harper's welfare.

He said: "We remain very concerned for Nicholas' safety and are continuing our searches of the area north of Helmsley today.

"Officers and volunteer search and rescue teams have been searching the area over the weekend with the help of police search dogs, drone cameras and the National Police Air Service helicopter. Specialist police search teams remain in the area today.

"Nicholas is an "ultra" runner and can run long distances, we are therefore appealing to outdoor enthusiasts who believe they may have seen Nicholas over the weekend, to please contact us along with anyone who is out and about in the area today."

Inspector Spence made a direct appeal to Nicholas himself urging him to get in contact with family and friends.

He said: "I would also like to appeal directly to Nicholas, your family, friends and colleagues are beside themselves with worry, if you see or hear this appeal, please contact us, your family or friends and let us know that you are safe."

Nicholas is described as white, 5ft 5ins tall and of stocky build with dark brown short hair and a full beard. He was last seen wearing a three piece suit and shirt.

If anyone believes they have seen Nicholas or has any information that could assist the search, they are asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101.