A MAN accused of fraud is the subject of a police hunt after he failed to appear at court this week.

Patrick Ward, of Semington, was due to attend Salisbury Crown Court on Monday, February 6.

He was to stand trial for fraud, consumer protection and money laundering charges but failed to appear on the day.

Ward is 26 years old, six feet tall and of slim build, with members of the public being urged to come forward if they see the man out and about.

An appeal was launched by Wiltshire Council on Wednesday, after a warrant was issued for his arrest.

They said that Ward has a noticeable scar on his cheek and is also wearing an electronic tag.

He also has connections to other parts of the country including West Midlands, Dorset, Manchester, and London.

"If you have any information on his location, please contact the police," a spokesperson for the council's Trading Standards team said.