Urgent hunt for man, 51, with ‘contagious condition’ after he suddenly disappeared from hospital as cops urge ‘call 999’

AN URGENT search has been launched for a man who “may have a contagious condition” after he disappeared from a hospital. CCTV released by Lancashire Police shows Dean Hesketh leaving Royal Preston Hospital at 11.16am on Tuesday (July 28) wearing a face mask. Dean Hesketh was captured leaving the hospital in a face mask Credit: Lancashire Police Dean absconded from Royal Preston Hospital on Tuesday Credit: Alamy Officers say they are increasingly concerned for the 51-year-old’s safety and welfare. Dean, who also goes by Tim and Anthony Gledhill, has strong links to Preston, Penwortham and Blackpool. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! He is described as slim, 5ft 4in with black hair and blue eyes. He was wearing a khaki green and black jacket, a Lyle and Scott jumper, black trainers, and a blue surgical face mask. Members of the public are warned not to approach Dean if they spot him as cops believe he could have a contagious condition. A spokesperson for the force said: “If you do see Dean it’s really important that you get in touch with us on 999 as soon as you can, so that we can make sure he is safe.” Comment now