A CONVICTED sex offender is hiding out in Darwen, police fear.

Officers are hunting for 24-year-old Scott Cathie who has failed to appear at court on burglary and theft offences.

Formerly of Fosse Close, Blackburn, Cathie is a registered sex offender after he was convicted of touching a woman’s bottom in Darwen last year.

He is wanted for allegedly not notifying the police of a change in his address.

Detective Inspector Claire Holbrook said: “We know that Cathie is aware that he is wanted and he is clearly evading his responsibilities by remaining in the Darwen and surrounding areas and not making himself known to police.

“We believe that Cathie is with associates in the area and that they may be giving him somewhere to stay.

“I want to make it absolutely clear that anyone who is assisting him is committing a serious offence and may be liable to prosecution.

“Failing to appear at court is a serious offence and I am particularly keen to see this man back in court to face both his burglary and sex offender registration allegations. I do not want this man to enjoy a Christmas break at the expense of the local community.

“I would strongly therefore urge anyone who has seen this man to contact the police immediately in confidence.”

Anybody with any information can contact police on 0845 125 3545 or you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or on-line at Crimestoppers-uk.org.