OFFICERS are appealing for help to find a convicted rapist.

Robert Stevens, 62, has been recalled to prison for breaching the agreements of his parole. Stevens, who also uses the surname Melias, is known across Hampshire, Dorset, Avon, Somerset and Devon.

He was convicted of rape in Shirehampton in 1998 and in 2011 was also convicted of a series of knifepoint commercial robberies at shops and bookmakers.

He is described as a white man, about 5ft 6ins tall, with grey/brown hair. He also has tattoos: a panther on his left arm and the names "City" on his left hand and "Bob" on his right hand.

Officers said that Stevens is known for visiting betting shops, homeless charities and church-based support groups for the homeless, as well as travelling around via buses, but often travels on foot.