A nationwide search has been launched for a murderer and rapist who has vanished after being granted bail to appeal against his conviction.

Police say Richard Crawford, who comes from Paisley near Glasgow, is dangerous to the elderly - particularly women.

He is now thought to be living in the Brighton area.

Richard Crawford did not appear in court

Crawford, 41, was jailed for life two years ago.

He was convicted of the murder and rape of an 87-year-old Paisley pensioner in 1987 and the attempted murder of another elderly person.

Crawford was granted bail last December after lodging an appeal against his conviction.

His lawyers argued that the DNA sample used to secure his conviction may have been inadmissible as evidence in court.

However, he failed to appear for a hearing last month.

A warrant was issued for his arrest - and the Crown Office has taken the highly unusual step of issuing a photograph of Crawford.

Richard Crawford is considered a danger to the elderly, particularly females

Detective Inspector Danny Ferguson

"Despite extensive police inquiries, efforts to trace him have met with a negative response," said a spokesperson for Strathclyde Police.

Detective Inspector Danny Ferguson added: "Inquiries suggest that Mr Crawford may be residing in the Brighton area.

"I would urge anyone who knows of his whereabouts or recognises the description or photograph not to approach him but to notify their local police immediately.

"Richard Crawford is considered a danger to the elderly, particularly females, and it is therefore imperative that he be traced and taken into custody without delay."

Crawford, who has several tattoos on each arm, is about 5ft 10in tall, with brown hair and deep-set eyes.