Police have launched an appeal for an Aveley man charged with rape who has failed to show up for court.

Gintaras Grigonis failed to attend Basildon Crown Court on March 27, 2015 to face charges of rape.

Essex Police is appealing for help from the public to trace him, the 43-year-old was last known to be living in Aveley and has connections to Tilbury, London and Kent.

He is white, 5ft 8ins tall, with short dark hair and blue eyes.

Anyone who knows of his whereabouts or has information that could help officers locate Gintaras Grigonis is asked to call us on 101.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.