POLICE are warning people in the Accrington area to be on the look-out for a dangerous man who has escaped from a mental hospital.

The man walked out of Cheadle Royal psychiatric hospital, Stockport, at about 8.15pm last night.

Police searched the grounds of the hospital but failed to find any trace of the man, who is described as dangerous.

The 38-year-old, who was sectioned under the Mental Health Act, is from Accrington and could be heading towards East Lancashire.

His description has been circulated to police forces across the North West, including Lancashire, Derbyshire, Cheshire and Greater Manchester.

Police have not named him, but are warning people not to approach him. He is 5ft 8ins, has a grey beard and long black curly hair, which is unkempt.

Anyone who may have seen the man should contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050.

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