YORK Police have warned residents not to approach a man who may be on the run in the city.

Martyn Kirby, 34, has not been seen since he absconded from a Doncaster bail hostel on October 30.

He was ordered to live there on his release from a three-year jail sentence for assault that he was handed in January 2003.

Officers urgently want to trace him, and they believe he may have returned to the city where he has connections in the Acomb area.

Sergeant Mike Stubbs said: "We are anxious to trace this man as soon as possible, and we are asking for the public's help in reporting any sightings of him.

"I would urge anyone who knows his whereabouts to call us. Do not approach him, but dial 999 immediately."

Updated: 11:06 Thursday, November 04, 2004