POLICE are appealing to the public to check outbuildings and sheds as the search continues for a missing Cumbrian man.

The parents of missing Caspar Capel, 43, have been appealing for help to find their son since his disappearance more than two weeks ago.

Former Kendal man Caspar Capel was last seen on January 14 at Eden Housing in Penrith.

His 71-year-old dad Dick Capel, of Kirkby Stephen, said his son was a very vulnerable adult and has recently been living in a hostel in Carlisle.

"He just seems to have disappeared - we're worried sick," said Mr Capel. "Through thick and thin he has always kept in touch."

Mr Capel added the 43-year-old had emailed him and wife Sue, 66, on January 13 but they had heard nothing since.

On the day he went missing Caspar Capel had an appointment at Eden Housing in Penrith.

Speaking to the Gazette, his father Mr Capel said he had spoken to someone from the housing association who reported he had been "nice, polite and courteous".

The housing association worker also reported she believed she had reason to be optimistic about finding somewhere for him to live.

After that, it is believed Caspar Capel went to Penrith Library as his library card had been used.

"It's really odd that he didn't email us," added Mr Capel.

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Cumbria Constabulary are coordinating a search for the missing man who was described by his dad as "gentle and sensitive", "sharp and intellectual".

Caspar Capel, who lived in Kendal for a short while, is described as a white male, of slim build, with short black hair and a beard.

He was last seen wearing a dark jacket with green coloured sleeves, black trousers and a flat cap.

Sgt Grant Stevens said: “It has now been nearly a fortnight since Mr Capel went missing, and we are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare.

“I would encourage anyone who may have seen Mr Capel to get in touch with any information they may have. I would also urge Mr Capel if he sees this appeal to let us know he is safe and well.”

A search involving 15 members of Penrith Mountain Rescue Team, 12 members of Kirkby Stephen Mountain Rescue Team and three SARDA dog handlers was carried out on Sunday (February 1) morning.

The hunt around Lacey's Cave and the surrounding woodland near Lazonby was in connection with missing Mr Capel but was negative.

Police remain concrned for the wellbeing of the missing man. 

Anyone with any information is urged to contact police immediately on 101 and ask to speak to the duty sergeant at Durranhill Police Station.