Police in Cumbria have launched an investigation to trace a man who has been reported missing from the Lake District.

33-yr-old Nicholas 'Nicky' Phillips was reported missing from the King George VI Memorial Hostel in Buttermere near Cockermouth, where he was last seen at around midday on Sunday 7th March.

Nicky had been sleeping rough since October 2009 and had only stayed at the hostel for a couple of days before he disappeared.

He told staff at the hostel that he was going walking, but he told family in Leamington Spa conflicting information, so they are worried about his safety.

Nicky is described as a white male with black, collar length hair with a ponytail. He is of slim build and has a pale complexion. He was last seen wearing a grey jumper, camouflage combat trousers, a black puffa-style jacket, a black woolly hat, grey trainers and was carrying a large green rucksack. He has a tattoo saying "Daniel" with a date of birth. He has a southern accent.

Nicky spoke to his Grandparents on Tuesday 9th March saying he was in Carnforth, but he was calling from a telephone with a Manchester prefix.

If you know of Nicky's whereabouts, or have seen a man fitting his description - particularly in the Cumbria or Manchester areas, contact Cumbria Police on 0845 33 00 247.