A convicted sex offender with a history of violence has gone missing from his hostel in Manchester.

John Phillips, 56, originally from Stockport, has a history of rape, serious sexual offences and aggravated burglary.

He was due to sign on at his accommodation on Monday, but did not appear.

Police have urged people not to approach him.

Phillips was on licence following his release from prison in September 2009.

He is described as white, slim, and 5ft 6ins tall. He was last seen wearing light blue jeans, a black jacket and black shoes.

Detective Inspector Debbie Conlon Houldershaw from Greater Manchester Police's Sex Offender Management Unit said: "Phillips has a history of violence and rape. We are keen to find out where he is so he can be properly monitored and avoid anyone being put in danger.

"Since he went missing, my officers have been carrying out inquiries to trace Phillips but we also need the public's help.

"If anyone has any information about where he is they should contact police at the earliest opportunity, we do not want people to take the law into their own hands and would urge people not to approach him.”

If you have information call 999 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.