Isle of Man residents are being asked to help police in the United Kingdom with a nationwide hunt for a suspected paedophile.

Sixty-three year old Brian Hughes (pictured) from Rugby in Warwickshire is thought to have committed offences against children over a period of 40 years, and there are fears he might be living within a 'family environment', grooming further victims.

There is no evidence to suggest he is on the Island but, because of the seriousness of the situation, the alert has gone out all over Britain.

The crimes Mr Hughes is suspected of committing include the rape of a young girl, whom he had groomed over a seven year period.

There are four known victims, boys and girls, the youngest being four years old, but police say there could be more and it is essential he is caught.

He went missing from his home in July 2007, after his family became aware of his activities.

A note was left in which he apologised for his actions, and said there was no excuse for what he did.

Despite an extensive search he is still missing and police believe he could be living with a family anywhere in Britain.

Anybody with information is asked to ring police headquarters in Douglas, the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800-555-111 or Warwickshire police, who are co-ordinating the operation.