Convicted sex offender Morris Petch failed to turn up for sentencing at the High Court in Edinburgh today (May 25th).

He was convicted at the High Court in Edinburgh yesterday of raping two young girls in the 1990s.

A High Court Non-Appearance Warrant was issued for his arrest this lunchtime.

A police spokesman said: 'A warrant has been issued for his arrest and we would urge anyone who may see Morris Petch not to approach him but to contact police immediately.'

He is described as white, 50-years-old, 6ft tall, heavy build, shaven and he walks with a limp as he has an artificial left leg from the knee down and also uses a stick.

As a convicted sex offender he is considered a danger to the public.

Anyone with any information should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.

Local Police News and Information