Thames Valley Police have released an urgent appeal for help in their search for an offender after failing to appear in court.

Ryan McLaughlan, 35, is wanted for failing to comply with sex offender registration requirements and for failing to appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 24 July for an unrelated offence.

As a part of management of sex offenders, McLaughlan is required to register with police regularly, at least every seven days, but he has failed to do so for the last two weeks.

PC Alistair Bosanco-Mitchell said: “Maclaughlan is normally found sleeping rough and has recently failed to engage with both police and probation service.

“If you see Maclaughlan, do not approach him, but call us immediately on 999, quoting reference 43240360823.”

The offender has been described as a white man, around 6ft 2ins to 6ft 3ins tall with brown hair and a beard and moustache.

He also has links to Edinburgh and London.

Thames Valley Police added: “If you know of his whereabouts, you can also contact us online or by calling 101, or if you wish to remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”