Friends of a homeless man have issued an appeal for his whereabouts after he vanished when he received a police caution.

The 48-year-old man, known only as Matthew, arrived in Gravesend last month and has struck up friendships with several people in the town.

An online fundraising page was set up to help him while food and clothes were also donated during the bitter cold snap.

But friends say Matthew has left the town centre after he was given a police caution last Thursday.

A police spokesman confirmed the 48-year-old was warned after reports rubbish and items had been left in Harmer Street.

Search parties were carried out in Erith, Dartford, Rochester, Chatham over the weekend but no sightings were made.

Chloe Simmons said: "We just hope he is safe and warm."

If you know of Matthew's whereabouts contact the Gravesend Messenger on 01474 564327.