Urgent hunt for man who ‘may have contagious condition’ after vanishing from hospital

Police have warned the public not to approach a man with a potentially ‘contagious health condition’ who has vanished from hospital.

An urgent search has been launched since Dean Hesketh, who also uses the names Tim, Dean, or Anthony Gledhill, disappeared.

The 51-year-old was last seen when he left Royal Preston Hospital in Lancashire on Tuesday at 11.16am.

Footage shows him wearing a blue surgical face mask as he walks along a hospital corridor.

Shortly before going missing, he was seen wearing a khaki green and black jacket, black trainers, and a Lyle and Scott jumper.

He is described as 5ft 4in tall, with black hair, blue eyes, and a slim build.

While authorities have warned that he may have a contagious condition, what that is has not been disclosed.

However, officers have said they are becoming ‘increasingly concerned’ for his welfare and have urged anyone who spots him to call 999 immediately, rather than approach him.

He has links to Preston, Penwortham, and Blackpool.

A Lancashire Police spokesperson said: ‘Enquiries to locate Dean are ongoing, and we are growing increasingly concerned for him.

‘We ask that if you see Dean, don’t approach him, as he may have a contagious health condition.

‘If you do see Dean, it’s really important that you get in touch with us on 999 as soon as you can so that we can make sure he is safe.’

Those with information should call 101 quoting log 1051 of July 28.

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