31 December 2012 Last updated at 09:25 ET

Missing man wanted in connection with Rochdale sex assault

Joshua Thompson is believed to be in the Rochdale area

Police are trying to trace a missing mental health patient who officers want to speak to following a sexual assault in Greater Manchester.

Joshua Thompson, 22, went missing from Prestwich Hospital, where he was admitted as a patient, on 27 December.

Police said he has schizophrenia and does not have access to his medication.

Officers want to speak to him in connection with a sexual assault on a 19-year-old woman at a flat on Milnrow Road, Rochdale, later on 27 December.

He is believed to be in the Rochdale area.

Officers are warning anyone who sees him not to approach him but to contact the police.

Gill Green, director of nursing and operations for Greater Manchester West Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We can confirm we are closely liaising with Greater Manchester Police regarding a patient who failed to return from their authorised, unescorted leave.

"As we are still finding out details surrounding this patient, we will not be commenting further."