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

Nicholas 'Nicky' Phillips, 33, was reported missing from the King George VI Memorial Hostel in Buttermere near Cockermouth.

He was last seen there at around midday on Sunday, March 7.

Police said Mr Phillips 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 told family in Leamington Spa conflicting information.

His family are worried about his safety.

Mr Phillips 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 and a southern accent.

Mr Phillips spoke to his grandparents on Tuesday, March 9 and told them he was in Carnforth, however the call was traced to a telephone in Manchester.

Anyone with information about the missing man or anyone who has seen a man fitting his description - particularly in the Cumbria or Manchester areas, should contact Cumbria Police on 0845 33 00 247.