POLICE are appealing for the public's help in their hunt for a 27-year-old man who escaped from a Merseyside court today.

James Gelling, from Southport, appeared before South Sefton Magistrates Court to face charges of assault and criminal damage.

At approximately 12.36pm, police were notified by the court that he had escaped.

Patrols attended and an extensive search of the area is underway.

Gelling is 5'10" tall with ginger hair.

Anyone who sees him is advised not approach him but to contact Merseyside Police on 999 immediately.

Police would also like to remind people that anyone found to be assisting or harbouring Mr Gelling is committing a criminal offence and could lead to imprisonment.

Anyone who knows of his whereabouts, to contact Merseyside Police on 101 and quote Log 530 of 21/11/14 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.