Dales hunt for missing man facing trial

Michael Tordoff-Brown, 49, from Wortley, Leeds, was due to appear at Leeds Crown Court on Monday accused of sexual offences against a woman, but failed to attend.

It is thought he had visited Ambleside area of Cumbria earlier in the week, but the police search is now focusing on the area around Horton-in-Ribblesdale, after he left his car in a National Trust car park in the village on Thursday.

Detectives said they were undertaking a small scale search of the area and appealed to walkers and residents of the traditional starting point for the Yorkshire Three Peaks hike.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said officers remained very concerned for Tordoff-Brown’s welfare. He is described as white, about 5ft 10in, with receding, cropped dark brown hair

Anyone with information should contact the force on 101.