A DANGEROUS paedophile is being hunted by police after going missing from the address where he was told to stay.

Paul Whiteley was released from prison on licence to an address in Accrington last Wednesday but has not been seen since.

The 47-year-old was convicted of indecent assault on a six-year-old girl in Blackpool in August 2003.

He was sentenced to two years in prison and is on the Sex Offenders' Register.

Police have now taken the unusual step of releasing a photograph of him in a bid to trace him for breaching his licence conditions.

They say he has convictions for indecent assault, burglary and assault and should not be approached.

The attack on the six-year-old happened while he was staying with a family in Blackpool but he is also known to have connections in Blackburn and Halifax.

Joan Pilkington, chair of the West Accrington Residents Association, said: "I hope he is caught soon for people's safety."

Maurice Cowell, chair of the Springhill Network residents association, and chair of the Hyndburn Police and Community Forum, said: "These people should be more restricted from movement. This person is dangerous so he should be in a more secure residence.

"For the public's sake I hope he is apprehended soon."

Detective Insp Ian Critchley said: "We would urge the public to help us trace this man.

"He is dangerous and we are keen to trace him as soon as possible, which is why we have taken the unusual step to release his details and a photograph."

Officers are working with the National Probation Service,

Whiteley is white, 5ft 5ins, medium build with blue eyes and dark brown, short hair.

He was last seen wearing a navy-coloured England shirt and navy jeans.

Call police on 01254 51212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.