AN ELDERLY Irish pensioner known for sleeping outdoors is missing in Merseyside.
Concern is growing for the safety and welfare of 80-year-old John Munnelly, who has been missing since Saturday.
Mr Munnelly has been living in a care home in Southport and was last seen on Ocean Plaza and also in Southport town centre. He was reported missing by staff at Abbotsbury care home on Park Road in the city.
He is described as white; around 5ft 7ins tall, of medium build with blue eyes, short cropped white hair and stubble. He speaks with an Irish accent.
Merseyside Police is appealing for the public's help in tracing him.
Although John has gone missing before and has been known to sleep outside, the care home and the police are concerned due the cold weather.
Detective Constable Sarah Marshall, said: “I am urging the people of Southport and other people around Merseyside to keep on the lookout for John.
"We are very worried about him because he is known to sleep rough and the weather has turned very cold at night.
“People who sleep outside will seek out shelter wherever they can, particularly in bad weather, and with Bonfire Night approaching there is a heightened risk.
"John is a well-known sight in Southport's takeaway and fast food restaurants so I am sure people will recognise his picture and if they have seen him since weekend, I'd urge them to call the police with that information so that we can check John is safe and well."
Call Merseyside Police on 0151 777 3083 or the Missing People charity on 116 000.
