Police in Hackney are extremely concerned for the welfare of an 82-year old man who has gone missing without the medicine he urgently needs.

James Howson, 82, was last seen at 4pm yesterday leaving his home in Priestly Close, Rabensdale Road, Stoke Newington.

DI Paul Ridley from Hackney CID, said: “We are extremely concerned due to Mr Howson’s confused state and medical history, which includes dizziness, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

“He walked away from his home which he shares with his wife of over 20 years and has not been seen since.

“He relies on medication for significant health issues which he is not in possession of, this clearly causes me deep concern the longer that time elapses.”

He added: “My investigation team are working tirelessly to locate this gentleman and any sightings from the public may prove crucial.”

This is the second time Mr Howson has gone missing, and he was previously found in Peckham in a confused state.

Mr Howson is described as a dark skinned black male, 5ft 7ins and of slim build, and was last seen to be wearing a blue baseball cap, grey jogging bottoms and dark trousers.

He wears glasses and walks with the aid of a walking stick.

He has got his Freedom Pass with him, and is known to travel on buses.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call police on 101 or Missing People on 116000, quoting reference 16MIS009097