POLICE have launched a hunt for an on-the-run man wanted in connection with offences including rape and false imprisonment who could be in Hampshire.

Members of the public are being warned not to approach 36-year-old John Hewitt, who is originally from Dickson Road, Blackpool but has links to areas including Hampshire.

Officers want to speak to him over alleged offences which also include possession of a firearm, threats to kill, and theft, and are reported to have taken place between June 2015 and July 2016.

He may go by names including John Wilson, Dean McKenzie, John Burton and John Davies.

DS Ellie Gomerson from Blackpool’s Public Protection Unit said: “We are actively trying to locate Hewitt and so I urge who may have seen him or knows where he is to get in touch with us.

“I would advise anyone who sees him not to approach him but to contact the police immediately.”

He has links to Portsmouth, Wales, Essex, Norfolk, the Thames Valley, Great Manchester and London.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.