Police appeal for help to find convicted criminal who is on the run

Officers believe 29-year-old Stephen Wesley Blake, of Crompton Avenue in Bidford-on-Avon, could be anywhere in the country but are particularly appealing to people in the Redditch area where he has connections, to help them locate him as soon as possible.

Blake was found guilty in his absence of charges of harassment, putting in fear of violence and possession of a shotgun following an incident which occurred in his home town on February 22 2010.

Blake went on the run after attending court prior to his pre-trial hearing on June 23 2011 but after being advised by his barrister of the forensic evidence available left the building and has been on the run since.

Judge Orme issued a bench warrant on that day and the trial still took place.

The jury found him guilty in his absence and the judge has adjourned the trial until Friday September 9 when it is hoped that Blake will be sentenced.

Officers are asking anyone with information on Blake’s whereabouts to call 415000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 as soon as possible.