POLICE have issued a new appeal in the hunt for a convicted rapist who has been on the run for three years.

Detectives are trying to track down Gary Johnson, 37, amid concerns he may be hiding in Greater Manchester.

Johnson, who used to live in Urmston, met his victim at a nightclub and raped her at a house in Urmston in March 2004.

He failed to attend his trial at Minshull Street Crown Court in 2006 and was found guilty in his absence of raping the woman. Detectives have been hunting him since then but have so far failed to catch him.

It is thought he may have gone abroad, but may now have retuned to Greater Manchester.

A police spokesman said: "Police officers have made extensive enquiries to find Johnson, however he still has not been traced."

Johnson had been held in custody during his trial, but was granted bail after the jury failed to reach a verdict. He then failed to appear at court when the trial was re-held. He was jailed for seven years in his absence.

It was thought he may have fled to the Philippines, but may now have returned home. He has links to Manchester, Trafford and Macclesfield.

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who has seen him or who knows of his whereabouts. Anyone with any information should call police in Trafford on 0161 856 7573 or 0161 856 7577. They can also call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.