Police warning over ‘contagious’ lacking man as locals urged to ‘keep away’

Dean Hesketh, 51, who also uses the names Tim, Dean or Anthony Gledhill, disappeared after leaving Royal Preston Hospital in Lancashire on July 28– police have urged people not to approach him

Police have launched an urgent search for a missing man who may be suffering from a “contagious health condition. Officers are warning members of the public not to approach him if sighted.

Dean Hesketh, 51, also known by the names Tim, Dean or Anthony Gledhill, vanished after departing Royal Preston Hospital in Lancs. on Tuesday (July 28). Authorities have issued a warning that he may be carrying a contagious health condition, but have declined to reveal the nature of the condition.

CCTV footage captures him donning a blue surgical face mask as he strolls down a hospital corridor shortly before his disappearance. Officers express growing “increasingly concerned” for his wellbeing and urge anyone who spots him to immediately dial 999 rather than approaching him.

Dean is described as being 5ft 4in tall, with black hair, blue eyes and a slim build. He was last seen clad in a khaki green and black jacket, black trainers and a Lyle and Scott jumper, along with the blue surgical mask.

He has connections to Preston, Penwortham and Blackpool.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police stated: “Enquiries to locate Dean are ongoing, and we are growing increasingly concerned for him.

“We ask that if you see Dean don’t approach him, as he may have a contagious health condition.

“If you do see Dean it’s really important that you get in touch with us on 999 as soon as you can, so that we can make sure he is safe.”

Those possessing information should ring 101 quoting log 1051 of July 28.

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