POLICE looking for missing Andrew Latcham in Blandford have extended their search as far as Poole.

They believe Mr Latcham, who has Alzheimer's, may be trying to revisit locations he is familiar with, including the Blandford Trailway and Hamworthy, where he grew up.

They said they have received huge support from the public but urged people to keep away from main search areas because they are focused mainly on rivers and floodplains that could be dangerous.

Mr Latcham, 70, went missing from a supported housing block in Park Road, Blandford at around 3.30am on Saturday December 30.

He was seen on CCTV wearing dark trainers with white soles, tracksuit bottoms and a dark-coloured raincoat.

The former landscape gardener was a keen kayaker and regularly took long walks.

Inspector Darren Stanton said: "Given Andrew's hobbies and history, our searches have been focused on the waterways in and around Blandford, as well as the Trailway, footpaths and bridleways. We are also searching locations along the route of the A350 between Blandford, Spetisbury and Hamworthy. It is possible that he is trying to retrace routes or visit places he is familiar with.

"Dorset Police has been assisted in the search by a wide range of partner agencies and specialist volunteers. This has included the National Police Air Service, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service, plus volunteers from Dorset Search & Rescue, Wessex 4x4 Response, and Dorset and Hampshire Search Dogs. I am grateful for all their help.

"Blandford has a close-knit community, so there has been a massive outpouring of support and concern, which is appreciated. I would encourage anyone with private CCTV in their home or business to view it for any sign of Andrew after 3:30am on Saturday morning, and to check their gardens and outbuildings in case he is sheltering.

"However, we have to discourage the general public from joining the main search. This is because the searches are focused mainly on rivers and floodplains that could be dangerous in the current weather conditions and as darkness falls. We have had lots of specially trained emergency services personnel and volunteers carrying out thorough searches of these areas."

If anyone sees someone matching Andrew's description, they should call Dorset Police on 999 quoting incident number 30:121.