A man is wanted by police after he failed to attend court on child sex charges.

Detectives are now appealing for information to find 37-year-old Paul Bennett after he failed to appear at Preston Crown Court on Friday.

Bennett, also known as Paul Crea, of King Street, Heywood, was due to appear at Preston Crown Court for an offence of engaging in sexual communication with a child.

He was found guilty in his absence on Friday.

Bennett is white, of a tall, slim build with dark-coloured hair.

He has links to Todmorden, West Yorkshire and Rochdale.

PC Dan Healey said: “Bennett knows he is wanted after failing to appear at court.

“We believe someone will know where he is.

"If you can help police please come forward immediately.”

Anyone with information can call 101 or email 6215@lancashire.police.uk.

In an emergency always call 999.

Lancashire Telegraph: