Police launch nationwide appeal for suspected paedophile.

Police have launched a nationwide appeal for help in tracing a suspected paedophile, Brian Hughes (pictured), after fears that he may be living with a family and grooming their children for sex.

Hughes is wanted by police on suspicion of abusing children over a 40-year period, including the alleged rape of a girl who officers believe he groomed for seven years.

The 48-year-old went missing from his family home in Rugby, Warwickshire, in July last year after his family found out about his alleged activities. He left a note apologising for what happened but has not made contact with his family since.

Despite an extensive search, the bricklayer remains missing and police believe he may be living elsewhere in the country within a family environment and grooming other children. It is believed Hughes' last job was working as a block paver and he is also a qualified bricklayer.

Detectives also believe he has used internet dating sites to meet women.

Police investigator Peter Herring said: "This man is a danger to the community and needs to be found. We are aware of four victims, girls and boys - one of whom was four - but we fear there may be others who haven't come forward. It is essential to trace him and I would ask anyone who believes they know where Hughes is to call police immediately."